The effects of force output and its preparatory period on fractionated reaction time were investigated. Eight subjects responded with an isometric elbow flexion to light stimuli under three experimental conditions, adjusting force output to match two target forces (10% or 40% of maximal isometric voluntary elbow flexion strength) displayed on an oscilloscope. Analysis indicates that the relationship between premotor time and force output is affected by preparatory states in the central nervous system, and the preparatory time necessary for exertion of a specific force varies with the magnitude of exerted force.
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