OCR GCSE Biology 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Muscles that work in pairs are referred to as antagonistic pairs. This term describes how one muscle contracts while the other muscle relaxes, allowing for movement around a joint. For example, when the biceps muscle contracts to flex the elbow, the triceps muscle simultaneously relaxes. This coordinated action creates smooth and controlled movements.

The concept of antagonistic pairs is crucial for understanding how our muscular system functions, particularly in relation to locomotion and physical activities. This pairing mechanism allows for efficient movement and helps maintain balance and stability during various actions.