Question

Which of the following conditions below is likely to DECREASE the likelihood of skeletal muscle contraction?

1) Increased calcium levels in the cytoplasm
2) Decreased ATP levels
3) Activation of acetylcholine receptors
4) Binding of myosin to actin filaments

Answer 1

Decreased ATP levels

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition that is likely to DECREASE the likelihood of skeletal muscle contraction is 2) Decreased ATP levels.

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the energy source that powers muscle contractions. When ATP levels are decreased, there is not enough energy available for the muscle fibers to contract properly. Without sufficient ATP, the cross-bridges between the myosin heads and actin filaments cannot form, leading to a decrease in muscle contraction.

On the other hand, increased calcium levels in the cytoplasm, activation of acetylcholine receptors, and binding of myosin to actin filaments all contribute to the likelihood of skeletal muscle contraction.