SSC Science Muscular System for SSC CGL, CHSL, CPO, MTS by Muskan Ma'am

In the SSC Science syllabus, the study of muscles is a favorite for examiners. The scientific study of muscles is called Myology. Muscles are specialized tissues that possess the properties of excitability, contractility, and extensibility.

As explained in the SSC Science Muscular System for SSC CGL, CHSL, CPO, MTS lecture by Muskan Maam, the muscular system works in tandem with the skeletal system to provide movement. While bones act as levers, muscles provide the force.

What is the Muscular System?

The muscular system is one of the most important systems of the human body, responsible for all types of movement. From simple actions like blinking and smiling to complex activities such as running or lifting heavy objects, muscles help us perform everyday tasks smoothly and efficiently.

It works closely with the skeletal and nervous systems to maintain posture, support body shape, and produce heat to regulate body temperature. Without the muscular system, voluntary and involuntary movements such as walking, breathing, and heartbeat would not be possible.

Muscular System: Classification of Muscles

Based on their structure and control, muscles are divided into three distinct categories:

1. Skeletal Muscles (Voluntary)

These are attached to the bones by tendons. Since we can control them at will (like moving your hand), they are called voluntary muscles. Under a microscope, they show stripes or "striations," hence they are also known as Striated Muscles.

2. Smooth Muscles (Involuntary)

These are found in the walls of internal organs like the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels. You cannot control these at will—your stomach digests food without you "telling" it to. They lack striations, which is why they are called Non-striated Muscles.

3. Cardiac Muscles

Found exclusively in the heart, these are the hardest-working muscles in the body. They are involuntary but striated. Their rhythmic contraction ensures blood is pumped throughout your life without getting fatigued.

The Chemistry of Muscle Fatigue

When muscles work too fast, they don't get enough oxygen. This leads to Anaerobic Respiration, resulting in the accumulation of Lactic Acid. This acid is the primary reason for muscle fatigue and soreness.

Important Connections Between Tendons vs. Ligaments

Tendons and ligaments are both connective tissues in the body, but they serve different roles. Tendons connect muscles to bones, while ligaments connect bones to other bones, providing stability to joints. This is perhaps the most repeated question in SSC exams.

1. Tendon: Connects Muscle to Bone. (Trick to remember: M-T-B - Muscle-Tendon-Bone).

2. Ligament: Connects Bone to Bone. (Trick to remember: B-L-B - Bone-Ligament-Bone).

Muscular System Key Facts for SSC Exams 

Muskan Mam highlights several "Static GK" points in the video that frequently appear in SSC CGL and CHSL papers:

• Total Number of Muscles: Approximately 639 (some sources vary, but 639 is the standard SSC answer).

• Largest Muscle: Gluteus Maximus (found in the hip).

• Smallest Muscle: Stapedius (located in the middle ear, associated with the smallest bone, the Stapes).

• Longest Muscle: Sartorius (runs down the length of the thigh).

• Strongest Muscle (by weight): Masseter (the jaw muscle).

• Muscle Protein: Muscles primarily contain two proteins, Actin and Myosin, which are responsible for contraction.

• Energy Source: Muscles store energy in the form of Glycogen.