Answer:
latent
Explanation:
A single action potential from a motor neuron triggers a single contraction in the muscle fibers of its motor unit. There is a brief delay between the application of the stimulus and the beginning of contraction. This delay is termed the latent period.
As the stimulus arrives axon terminal of a motor neuron, the resultant muscle action potential is propagated over the sarcolemma as the neurotransmitter is released in the synaptic cleft and binds to its receptors. There is a release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum to trigger excitation. During the latent period, muscles do not contract. The contraction period occurs once the latent period is over.
