rigor mortis refers to the changes in muscle tissue that occur after death. the muscles become very stiff or rigid and are frozen in a contracted state. rigor mortis usually sets in within four hours, first in the face and generally smaller muscles. the body reaches maximum stiffness in twelve to forty-eight hours. however, this time may vary due to environmental conditions, with cooler conditions inhibiting rigor mortis. which of the following images would depict the state of the cross bridge cycle during rigor mortis?