Question

multiple choice question

this muscle pulls the scapula downward and forward.

trapezius
rectus abdominis
pectoralis minor
leg muscle

Explanation:

Identify the target action

The question asks for the muscle that pulls the scapula downward and forward (depression and protraction).

Analyze the options

Using the Trapezius Function and Pectoralis Minor Function knowledge points:

• Trapezius: This large superficial back muscle primarily rotates, retracts (pulls backward), elevates, and depresses the scapula, but it does not pull it forward.
• Rectus abdominis: This is an abdominal wall muscle that flexes the vertebral column and compresses the abdomen; it does not attach to or directly move the scapula.
• Pectoralis minor: This thin, triangular muscle lies deep to the pectoralis major. It originates from the third, fourth, and fifth ribs and inserts into the coracoid process of the scapula. Its contraction pulls the scapula downward (depression) and forward (protraction).
• Leg muscle: This is a general distractor and does not act on the pectoral girdle.

Answer:

• Trapezius
• Rectus abdominis
• Pectoralis minor (Correct answer)
• Leg muscle