When a cell dies its plasma membrane becomes “leaky”; i.e., it becomes permeable to ions that were unable to freely cross the membrane during life. Thus, after death, calcium ions leak across the sarcolemma of muscle fibers. This calcium leak causes rigor mortis, a temporary stiffness of the muscles after death. Apply your understanding of the mechanism of skeletal muscle contraction (specifically regarding events within muscle fibre) and explain the molecular basis of the phenomenon known as rigor mortis.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...
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Xena eventually catches Callisto (remember, she is 25 years old). Salmoneus, who is 60 years old, agrees to deliver Callisto to face charges for war crimes. On the way, their cart crashes down a ravine. 

Salmoneus dies. When a cell dies its plasma membrane becomes “leaky”; i.e., it becomes permeable to ions that were unable to freely cross the membrane during life. Thus, after death, calcium ions leak across the sarcolemma of muscle fibers. This calcium leak causes rigor mortis, a temporary stiffness of the muscles after death. Apply your understanding of the mechanism of skeletal muscle contraction (specifically regarding events within muscle fibre) and explain the molecular basis of the phenomenon known as rigor mortis.

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