Origin, Insertion, And Action Of Muscles Quiz

Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Prowlingpangolin
P
Prowlingpangolin
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 5 | Total Attempts: 35,154
Questions: 16 | Attempts: 34,717

SettingsSettingsSettings
Origin, Insertion, And Action Of Muscles Quiz - Quiz

Welcome to our Muscle Origin And Insertion Quiz, where you'll dive into the intricate details of human anatomy and physiology. This quiz is designed to test your understanding of muscle origins and insertions, key components in understanding how muscles function within the body.

In this comprehensive quiz, you'll explore the origins and insertions of major muscle groups, learning about their attachment points and the role they play in the movement. From the biceps brachii to the quadriceps femoris, each muscle has specific points where it originates and inserts into bones or other structures, influencing how the body moves and functions. Read more

By challenging yourself with questions about muscle origins and insertions, you'll gain valuable insights into the mechanics of human movement and enhance your ability to assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions. Take our Muscle Origin And Insertion Quiz and see how well you know the intricacies of muscle anatomy!


Muscle Origin And Insertion Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    What are the points of origin and insertion for the LATISSIMUS DORSI muscle?

    • A.

      Thoracic Vertebrae

    • B.

      Thoraco Lumbar Fasciae

    • C.

      Scapula

    • D.

      Humerus

    Correct Answer(s)
    B. Thoraco Lumbar Fasciae
    D. Humerus
    Explanation
    The latissimus dorsi muscle, commonly known as the "lats," originates from several areas including the thoracolumbar fascia, which covers the lower and middle back. It also originates from the lower thoracic vertebrae, the iliac crest of the hip bones, and sometimes the inferior angle of the scapula. Its insertion point, where it attaches to the bone it moves, is on the humerus (the upper arm bone), specifically at the intertubercular groove of the humerus. This arrangement allows the latissimus dorsi to perform functions such as extending, adducting, and medially rotating the arm.

    Rate this question:

  • 2. 

    The PECTORALIS muscle originates in the sternum and inserts in the ______.

    • A.

      Scapula

    • B.

      Humerus

    • C.

      Ribs

    Correct Answer
    B. Humerus
    Explanation
    The pectoralis major muscle, often referred to as the "pecs," originates from several locations, including the sternum (breastbone), the clavicle (collarbone), and the cartilage of the first to sixth ribs. It inserts into the humerus, specifically at the greater tubercle and along the lateral lip of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus. This muscle is primarily responsible for movements such as the adduction and medial rotation of the arm at the shoulder. It does not insert into the scapula or the ribs directly, making "humerus" the correct answer for its insertion point.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    The SUPRASPINATUS muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Scapula / Humerus

    • B.

      Humerus / Scapula

    • C.

      Sternum / Scapula

    Correct Answer
    A. Scapula / Humerus
    Explanation
    The supraspinatus muscle is one of the four rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder. It originates from the supraspinous fossa, a concave depression above the spine on the posterior surface of the scapula. The muscle then inserts into the greater tubercle of the humerus. This specific anatomical arrangement allows the supraspinatus muscle to perform its primary function, which is to assist in the abduction of the arm at the shoulder joint. The muscle's origin and insertion correctly match the option "Scapula / Humerus," making it the accurate choice.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    The INFRASPINATUS muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Scapula / Humerus

    • B.

      Humerus / Scapula

    • C.

      Sternum / Scapula

    Correct Answer
    A. Scapula / Humerus
    Explanation
    The infraspinatus muscle, another crucial member of the rotator cuff group, originates from the infraspinous fossa, which is the large depression below the spine on the posterior surface of the scapula. It inserts into the greater tubercle of the humerus. This muscle primarily helps in the lateral rotation of the arm at the shoulder and also assists in stabilizing the shoulder joint. The correct origin and insertion points for the infraspinatus muscle are indeed the scapula and the humerus, respectively, making "Scapula / Humerus" the correct answer.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    The rhomboideus muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Vertebrae / Scapula

    • B.

      Scapula / Vertebrae

    • C.

      Vertebrae / Sternum

    Correct Answer
    A. Vertebrae / Scapula
    Explanation
    The rhomboideus muscle group, consisting of the rhomboid major and rhomboid minor muscles, originates from the spinous processes of the cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae. Specifically, the rhomboid minor originates from the spinous processes of the C7 to T1 vertebrae, and the rhomboid major originates from T2 to T5. These muscles insert on the medial border of the scapula. Their primary function is to retract the scapula, pulling it towards the vertebral column, and stabilize the scapula. Therefore, the correct answer is that the rhomboideus muscle originates from the vertebrae and inserts into the scapula.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    The SERRATUS VENTRALIS  muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Ribs / Scapula

    • B.

      Scapula / Vertebrae

    • C.

      Scapula / Ribs

    Correct Answer
    A. Ribs / Scapula
    Explanation
    The serratus ventralis muscle, often referred to simply as the serratus anterior in humans, originates from the outer surface of the upper eight or nine ribs. This muscle inserts along the entire anterior length of the medial border of the scapula. Its major functions include protracting the scapula, which pulls it forward against the thoracic wall, and assisting in upward rotation of the scapula. This muscle is crucial for activities that involve pushing and punching motions. Hence, "Ribs / Scapula" is the correct answer for the origin and insertion points of the serratus ventralis muscle.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    The TRICEPS BRACHII (LONG HEAD) muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Scapula / Ulna

    • B.

      Scapula / Radius

    • C.

      Scapula / Humerus

    Correct Answer
    A. Scapula / Ulna
    Explanation
    The triceps brachii muscle has three heads: the long head, medial head, and lateral head. The long head of the triceps brachii originates from the infraglenoid tubercle of the scapula, distinguishing it from the other two heads that originate on the humerus. It inserts onto the olecranon process of the ulna. The primary function of the triceps brachii, including its long head, is to extend the forearm at the elbow joint. The insertion on the ulna allows it to perform this function effectively, making "Scapula / Ulna" the correct answer.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    The TRICEPS BRACHII (MEDIAL HEAD) muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Humerus / Ulna

    • B.

      Humerus / Radius

    • C.

      Scapula / Humerus

    Correct Answer
    A. Humerus / Ulna
    Explanation
    The triceps brachii muscle has three heads: the long, lateral, and medial heads. The medial head of the triceps brachii originates from the posterior surface of the humerus, below the radial groove. It is positioned deep to the other two heads. This head inserts onto the olecranon process of the ulna along with the other heads of the triceps brachii. Its primary role, shared with the other heads, is to extend the forearm at the elbow joint. Therefore, the correct answer is "Humerus / Ulna," which accurately describes the origin and insertion points of the medial head of the triceps brachii.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    The BICEPS BRACHII (BOTH HEADS) muscle originates from the _____ and inserts in the _______.

    • A.

      Humerus / Ulna

    • B.

      Humerus / Radius

    • C.

      Scapula / Radius

    Correct Answer
    C. Scapula / Radius
    Explanation
    The biceps brachii muscle consists of two heads: the long head and the short head. The long head originates from the supraglenoid tubercle of the scapula, while the short head originates from the coracoid process of the scapula. Both heads converge as they travel down the arm and insert into the radial tuberosity on the radius. This muscle primarily functions to flex the forearm at the elbow and supinate the forearm. Therefore, "Scapula / Radius" is the correct answer, reflecting the origins from the scapula and insertion into the radius for both heads of the biceps brachii.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    The action of the LATISSIMUS DORSI muscle is to...

    • A.

      Retract the arm.

    • B.

      Adduct the arm.

    • C.

      Protract the arm.

    • D.

      Rotate the arm.

    Correct Answer
    B. Adduct the arm.
    Explanation
    The latissimus dorsi muscle is a large, flat muscle on the back that helps in several movements including adduction, extension, and medial rotation of the arm. Specifically, the action of adducting the arm involves bringing the arm down towards the body from a raised position. This muscle is particularly active during activities that require pulling the arm down or towards the body, such as rowing or climbing. Therefore, the correct description of the action of the latissimus dorsi muscle is to "adduct the arm."

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    The action of the INFRASPINATUS muscle is to...

    • A.

      Retract the arm.

    • B.

      Adduct the arm.

    • C.

      Protract the arm.

    • D.

      Rotate the arm.

    Correct Answer
    D. Rotate the arm.
    Explanation
     The infraspinatus muscle is one of the four rotator cuff muscles and its primary function is to externally rotate the arm at the shoulder joint. This action involves turning the arm laterally, away from the body, which is critical for a range of movements in sports and daily activities. The infraspinatus muscle works together with other muscles of the rotator cuff to stabilize the shoulder as well as perform this rotational movement. Therefore, the correct action of the infraspinatus muscle is to "rotate the arm," specifically performing external rotation.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    The action of the rhomboideus muscle is to...

    • A.

      Retract or adduct the scapula towards the spine.

    • B.

      Rotates the scapulae and forms a sling by which weight is transferred to the pectoral girdle.

    • C.

      Protract the arm.

    • D.

      Rotate the arm.

    Correct Answer
    A. Retract or adduct the scapula towards the spine.
    Explanation
    The action of the rhomboideus muscle is to retract or adduct the scapula towards the spine.
    This muscle group, which includes the rhomboid major and rhomboid minor muscles, is located in the upper back. Its primary function is to retract the scapula, pulling it towards the vertebral column, which stabilizes the scapula during arm movements.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    The action of the TRICEPS BRACHII (LONG HEAD) muscle is to...

    • A.

      Hold the scapula in place.

    • B.

      Rotates the scapulae and forms a sling by which weight is transferred to the pectoral girdle.

    • C.

      Extend the forearm.

    • D.

      Flex the forearm.

    Correct Answer
    C. Extend the forearm.
    Explanation
    The triceps brachii muscle, including its long head, primarily functions to extend the forearm at the elbow. This muscle is crucial for straightening the arm, an essential movement in many physical activities, such as pushing against resistance. The long head of the triceps also plays a role in adducting the upper arm at the shoulder. However, its dominant action in the forearm is extension, not flexion or movements related to the scapula. Therefore, "extend the forearm" is the correct answer for the primary action of the triceps brachii (long head).

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    The action of the SERRATUS VENTRALIS  muscle is to...

    • A.

      Hold the scapula in place.

    • B.

      Rotates the scapulae and forms a sling by which weight is transferred to the pectoral girdle.

    • C.

      Protract the arm.

    • D.

      Rotate the arm.

    Correct Answer
    C. Protract the arm.
    Explanation
    The serratus ventralis muscle, commonly known as the serratus anterior in humans, primarily functions to protract the scapula. This muscle plays a crucial role in movements that involve pushing the scapula forward and around the rib cage, such as when pushing against an object or during the forward motion of punching. By doing so, it allows for a broad range of shoulder movements, enhancing the arm's ability to extend and reach forward effectively. Therefore, the most accurate description of the action of the serratus ventralis muscle is "protract the arm."

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    The action of the TRICEPS BRACHII (MEDIAL HEAD) muscle is to...

    • A.

      Hold the scapula in place.

    • B.

      Rotates the scapulae and forms a sling by which weight is transferred to the pectoral girdle.

    • C.

      Extend the forearm.

    • D.

      Flex the forearm.

    Correct Answer
    C. Extend the forearm.
    Explanation
    The triceps brachii, including its medial head, is primarily responsible for extending the forearm at the elbow joint. This muscle group is crucial for straightening the arm, an essential function in many physical activities like pushing and pulling. The medial head of the triceps brachii is particularly significant because it provides a consistent force throughout all degrees of elbow extension and is often engaged even when the arm is not fully flexed. It does not play a role in flexing the forearm, nor does it directly affect movements related to the scapula. Therefore, "extend the forearm" is the correct action for the medial head of the triceps brachii.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    The action of the BICEPS BRACHII (BOTH HEADS) muscle is to...

    • A.

      Hold the scapula in place.

    • B.

      Rotates the scapulae and forms a sling by which weight is transferred to the pectoral girdle.

    • C.

      Extend the forearm.

    • D.

      Flex the forearm.

    Correct Answer
    D. Flex the forearm.
    Explanation
    The biceps brachii muscle, consisting of both the long and short heads, primarily functions to flex the forearm at the elbow. This action involves bending the elbow, bringing the forearm towards the shoulder, which is essential in movements such as lifting objects or performing a bicep curl. Additionally, the biceps brachii assists in supinating the forearm (turning the palm upwards). It does not play a role in extending the forearm or directly affecting the scapula's position or movement. Therefore, "flex the forearm" accurately describes the primary action of the biceps brachii muscle.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • May 09, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Nov 28, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Prowlingpangolin
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.