Multiple choice The heart keeps on beating throughout life without fatigue because it contracts slowly it has a resting or recovery period it can use lactic acid as an extra source of energy none of the above Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself B Correct answer Explanation The heart muscle (myocardium) has a long refractory period, which acts as a recovery phase, preventing the muscle from entering a state of sustained contraction (tetanus) and allowing it to rest between beats.