What are anatomical difference between skeletal muscle and smooth muscle
1. Structure: Skeletal muscle is a striated muscle that is attached to bones by tendons, allowing for voluntary movement. Smooth muscle, on the other hand, is non-striated and is found in the walls of internal organs, blood vessels, and other structures. It is involuntary and controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
2. Nuclei: Skeletal muscle cells are multinucleated, with multiple nuclei located at the periphery of the cell. Smooth muscle cells have a single, centrally located nucleus.
3. Contraction: Skeletal muscle contraction is fast and strong, allowing for precise movements. Smooth muscle contraction is slower and more sustained, allowing for functions such as peristalsis in the digestive system.
4. Regulation: Skeletal muscle contraction is under conscious control and is regulated by motor neurons. Smooth muscle contraction is under involuntary control and is regulated by the autonomic nervous system and hormones.
5. Function: Skeletal muscle is responsible for movements such as walking, running, and lifting weights. Smooth muscle plays a role in functions such as digestion, blood flow regulation, and breathing.