Human Physiology - Locomotion and Movement

Detailed Notes for JEE Preparation

Introduction to Locomotion:

• Define locomotion as the movement of an organism from one place to another.
• Explain its significance in human physiology, including the ability to perform daily activities, explore the environment, and interact with others.

Types of Locomotion:

• Describe different types of locomotion in humans:
  • Walking: Bipedal gait with sequential footfalls.
  • Running: Bipedal gait with aerial phase.
  • Jumping: Propelling the body vertically.
  • Climbing: Using limbs and body strength to ascend or descend.
• Discuss the adaptations in the skeletal and muscular systems for these types of locomotion.

Skeletal System:

Bones:

• Describe the structure of a long bone, including epiphysis, diaphysis, medullary cavity, periosteum, and articular cartilage. (Ref: NCERT Biology Class 11, Ch 19, “Skeletal System”)
• Explain the functions of bones, such as support, protection, storage, and movement.
• Understand the process of bone formation (ossification) and bone growth.

Joints:

• Classify joints based on structure and movement:
  • Fibrous: Immovable, e.g., skull sutures.
  • Cartilaginous: Slightly movable, e.g., intervertebral discs.
  • Synovial: Freely movable, e.g., knee joint.
• Describe the structure of a synovial joint, including articular cartilage, synovial fluid, ligaments, and tendons. (Ref: NCERT Biology Class 11, Ch 19, “Structure of a Synovial Joint”)

Muscular System:

Skeletal Muscles:

• Explain the structure of skeletal muscle, including muscle fibers, myofilaments, and sarcomeres. (Ref: NCERT Biology Class 11, Ch 18, “Structural Organization of Skeletal Muscles”)
• Describe the mechanism of muscle contraction, involving the sliding filament model, role of calcium, and energy requirements.

Muscle Physiology:

• Understand the physiological processes during muscle contraction:
  • Excitation-contraction coupling.
  • Role of calcium ions in triggering contraction.
  • Cross-bridge formation between actin and myosin.
  • Energy requirements and ATP hydrolysis.

Types of Muscles:

Skeletal Muscles:

• Describe the structure, location, and functions of skeletal muscles. (Ref: NCERT Biology Class 11, Ch 18, “Types of Muscles”)

Smooth Muscles:

• Explain the characteristics and functions of smooth muscles, found in internal organs and blood vessels.

Cardiac Muscles:

• Understand the unique features and functions of cardiac muscles in the heart.

Biomechanics of Movement:

• Apply the principles of biomechanics to analyze human movement:
  • Force: Analyze the forces acting on the body during movement, including gravity, friction, and muscular forces.
  • Velocity and acceleration: Calculate and graph the velocity and acceleration of body segments during movement.
  • Leverage: Understand the mechanical advantage provided by joints and the role of muscles in generating force.

Gait Analysis:

• Define gait as a sequence of footfalls during walking or running.
• Describe the different phases of gait: stance, swing, and double support.
• Analyze abnormal gait patterns, such as antalgic gait, and their implications.

Neural Control of Movement:

• Discuss the role of the nervous system in controlling movement, including:
  • Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.
  • Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Sensory receptors and motor neurons.
• Explain the pathways involved in motor coordination, balance, and reflexes.

Common Musculoskeletal Disorders:

• Understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for common musculoskeletal disorders:
  • Arthritis: Inflammation of joints.
  • Osteoporosis: Bone loss and weakening.
  • Muscle strains: Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers.

Physiological Adaptations for Movement:

• Explore the physiological changes that occur in response to physical activity and training:
  • Increased muscle mass (hypertrophy).
  • Improved muscle endurance and strength.
  • Increased flexibility and range of motion.
  • Enhanced cardiovascular function and oxygen delivery.

Sports Physiology:

• Analyze the physiological factors affecting sports performance:
  • Muscle power and endurance.
  • Energy metabolism and fuel utilization.
  • Recovery and regeneration after exercise.

By mastering these subtopics and referring to the recommended NCERT textbooks, you can build a strong foundation in Human Physiology - Locomotion and Movement for success in the JEE exam.