[Summation of maximal tetanic tensions developed by slow or fast motor units of the peroneus longus muscle in the cat].

The maximal tetanic tension developed by the simultaneous contraction of several slow motor units (measured tension) is always greater than the sum of the tensions developed by each unit individually (cumulated tension). Generally, the same holds true for fast units but, for measured tensions of same value, the difference between measured tensions and cumulated tensions is much smaller. It is sometimes negligible or even negative.