Which muscle closes the eyelids (blink)?

Study the Muscle Actions and Functions Test. Explore anatomy and movement with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Master your exam with hints and explanations check your understanding!

Multiple Choice

Which muscle closes the eyelids (blink)?

Explanation:
The muscle that closes the eyelids is the orbicularis oculi. It forms a circular band around the eye and acts like a sphincter to bring the lids together. Its palpebral portion gently closes the eyelids during blinking, while the orbital portion can squeeze them more tightly for a stronger closure. The other muscles have different roles: orbicularis oris surrounds the mouth and closes or protrudes the lips; frontalis lifts the eyebrows and wrinkles the forehead; zygomaticus major elevates the corners of the mouth. So eyelid closure is specifically carried out by the orbicularis oculi.

The muscle that closes the eyelids is the orbicularis oculi. It forms a circular band around the eye and acts like a sphincter to bring the lids together. Its palpebral portion gently closes the eyelids during blinking, while the orbital portion can squeeze them more tightly for a stronger closure. The other muscles have different roles: orbicularis oris surrounds the mouth and closes or protrudes the lips; frontalis lifts the eyebrows and wrinkles the forehead; zygomaticus major elevates the corners of the mouth. So eyelid closure is specifically carried out by the orbicularis oculi.

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