Correct Answer: (2) Microgravity
Explanation:
- Muscle atrophy refers to the weakening and loss of muscle mass, which astronauts experience during prolonged space missions.
- This is primarily caused by microgravity conditions in space. In a microgravity environment, there is significantly reduced force acting on the muscles, especially those used for posture and movement on Earth.
- Without the regular resistance provided by Earth's gravity, muscles are not adequately exercised, leading to their gradual atrophy over time.
Other options:
- (1) Hyper gravity: This is incorrect as hypergravity involves an increased gravitational force, which would not result in muscle atrophy but could strengthen muscles.
- (3) High caloric intake: While excessive calorie consumption can lead to other health issues, it does not directly cause muscle atrophy.
- (4) Increased radiation exposure: While radiation is a risk in space, it primarily affects DNA and cellular health rather than directly causing muscle atrophy.
Final Answer:
(2) Microgravity
Astronauts experience muscle atrophy during prolonged space missions primarily due to microgravity conditions. In microgravity, muscles are not required to support body weight or perform movements against gravity, leading to muscle weakening and loss over time.
NASA has conducted extensive research on this phenomenon and developed countermeasures to mitigate muscle and bone loss in microgravity. Their findings highlight the importance of exercise, nutrition, and potential pharmacological interventions to maintain astronaut health during extended missions.
Additionally, studies have shown that microgravity weakens both bone and muscle, with the effects being interconnected. The weakening of muscle accelerates bone loss, posing significant challenges for long-term space travel.
Understanding and addressing muscle atrophy in microgravity is crucial for the success of future long-duration space missions, including those to the Moon and Mars. Ongoing research aims to develop effective strategies to counteract these adverse effects and ensure astronaut health and performance.
Recent Developments in Combating Muscle Atrophy in Space
