What causes rigor mortis, the postmortem stiffening of muscles, to occur?

Biology Mcqs for PPSC, FPSC, NTS, and Pakistan government job tests. Select an option below, then read the explanation.

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Subject
Biology Mcqsbiology-mcqs
Published
23 May 2018
Last updated
28 May 2026

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Explanation

Rigor mortis happens because ATP, which is essential for separating actin and myosin filaments in muscle cells, is no longer produced after death. Without ATP, the muscles remain contracted, causing stiffness. Other factors like protein accumulation or temperature drop do not directly cause this stiffening.

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