Arm muscles and leg muscles are arranged in antagonistic pairs. How does this affect their functioning? a. It provides a backup if one of the muscles is injured. b. One muscle of the pair pushes while the other pulls. c. A single motor neuron can control both of them. d. It allows the muscles to produce opposing movements.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of antagonistic muscle pairs: Antagonistic muscles are pairs of muscles that work against each other to move bones around joints. One muscle contracts to move the bone in one direction, and the antagonist muscle contracts to move it back.
2. Identify the function of each muscle in the pair: In each antagonistic pair, one muscle is responsible for contracting (pulling) and the other for extending (pushing) a joint.
3. Analyze the options given in the question: Consider how the arrangement of muscles in antagonistic pairs influences their function.
4. Relate the concept to the options: Determine which option correctly describes the effect of muscles being arranged in antagonistic pairs on their functioning.
5. Eliminate incorrect options based on the understanding of antagonistic muscle pairs and their function in movement.