| Abstract: | The results of a theoretical (model) study of the behavior of a muscle treated as a unidimensional viscoelastic bundle of fibers of finite length are presented. Solution of a second-order differential equation which takes account of the wave processes in the medium under consideration provides an explanation for several of the dynamic effects which are observed in experimental investigations into muscle mechanics (the jumps in the stresses during the linear extension of a muscle, the rapid weakening during its contraction, and so on). The analysis shows that the empirical equation for a muscle due to Hill may be considered as a relationship which is a consequence of its viscoelastic properties and wave phenomena. |
