CEAS Human Anatomy & Biomechanics 2

Question 1

A muscle contraction in which force is produced without any change in muscle length (e.g., holding a tool in a fixed position) is classified as:

Accepted Answer

Isometric

Answer

Isometric contractions occur when a muscle exerts force while its length remains constant; prolonged static holds contribute significantly to muscle fatigue in ergonomic tasks.

Question 2

The nucleus pulposus is the hydrated, gel-like core found within which spinal structure?

Accepted Answer

Intervertebral disc

Answer

The nucleus pulposus is the central gelatinous material of the intervertebral disc that distributes compressive loads and provides flexibility; it loses hydration with age and repetitive loading.

Question 3

In biomechanics, the 'moment arm' is defined as:

Accepted Answer

The perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of force application

Answer

The moment arm is the perpendicular distance from the pivot (joint) axis to the line of action of the applied force, directly determining the torque generated.

Question 4

The NIOSH Lifting Equation's Recommended Weight Limit (RWL) is calculated by multiplying a load constant by task multipliers that include:

Accepted Answer

Horizontal distance, vertical height, travel distance, asymmetry angle, frequency, and coupling quality

Answer

The NIOSH Lifting Equation uses six multipliers (horizontal, vertical, distance, asymmetry, frequency, coupling) applied to a 51-lb load constant to compute the RWL.

Question 5

Cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) of the upper extremity are primarily caused by:

Accepted Answer

Repeated low-level mechanical stress accumulating over time

Answer

CTDs result from the accumulation of microtrauma from repeated exposure to risk factors such as force, repetition, and awkward posture over extended periods.

CEAS - Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist Practice Test

CEAS - Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist Practice Test

CEAS Human Anatomy & Biomechanics 2