What are the primary roles of skeletal muscle?

The primary roles of skeletal muscle revolve around developing tension and facilitating movement at the joints. Skeletal muscles are composed of muscle fibers that contract and create force, allowing for various movements of the body, such as walking, running, and lifting. This contraction is essential for joint movement, as it pulls on the bones and alters the position of the joints in which these muscles are attached.

While tension development is a key function of all skeletal muscles, the second part of the correct answer highlights their role in moving joints. When skeletal muscles contract, they exert force on the tendons that are connected to bones, resulting in movement. This action is fundamental to our ability to perform physical activities and maintain mobility.

Other choices focus on different aspects or functions that do not encompass the primary responsibilities of skeletal muscle. Options that mention hormone production or organ protection, for instance, pertain more to other systems in the body or types of tissues. Therefore, the combination of tension development and joint movement distinctly characterizes the primary roles of skeletal muscle.