Chapter 10, Problem 18DYKB

Summary Introduction

To describe:

The characteristic of smooth muscle that allows it to contract for extended periods of time and not get fatigued.

Concept introduction:

Smooth muscle cells are fusiform shaped and small with the centrally located nucleus. They are about $\text{5}-\text{10μm}$ in diameter and $\text{50}-\text{200μm}$ in length. Smooth muscle tissues are located throughout the body and contribute about $\text{2}\text{\%}$ of total body weight. They exhibit three characteristics that are initiation and duration of contraction, fatigue resistant, and length-tension curve.