Recall that each myosin head has a region that binds to actin and a region that binds to ATP. Myosin cannot release from actin until ATP binds, and the hydrolysis of ATP into adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi) then releases energy needed for the myosin head to reposition or re-cock. Cross-bridge formation occurs when the myosin head attaches to actin while ADP and Pi are still bound to myosin. Pi is then released, causing the myosin head to move toward the M-line, pulling the actin along with it. This movement is called the power stroke. ADP is then released, resulting in a stronger attachment of myosin to actin, referred to as the rigor state. In the absence of ATP, the myosin head will not detach from actin. ATP binding causes the myosin head to detach from actin. After detachment, ATP is hydrolyzed into ADP and Pi by the myosin ATPase activity. The energy released during ATP hydrolysis re-cocks the myosin head, preparing it for the next cycle of attachment and pulling. Each thick filament has multiple myosin heads that cycle asynchronously to maintain constant tension in the activated myofiber. During muscle contraction, many cross-bridges form and break continuously. The energy demand for this process is high, explaining the need for ATP. In the absence of ATP, as seen in rigor mortis, myosin heads remain bound to actin, causing muscle rigidity., Describe the sequence of events involved in the contraction of a skeletal muscle fiber, including events at the neuromuscular junction, excitation-contraction coupling, and cross-bridge cycling., Start studying Focus Figure 9.3: Cross Bridge Cycle. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools..