Slide #20

• Twitch tension results from a single depolarization.
• Multiple depolarizations that occur with a high frequence result in a continuous increase in the intracellular calcium level.
• Eventually, the Troponin C in the cell will be saturated with calcium and the fiber will be able to pull with maximal tension.
• Although it is not well documented in this slide, Tetanus Tension is about three times Twitch Tension

Series Elastic Component

• When the muscle contracts some of the force is maintained in the elastic components of the fibers (such as the ability of the myosin to stretch). This elastic force is later transferred.