Muscle Tissue

Muscle tissue is a type of tissue that is composed of cells that have the ability to contract. There are three types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth.

Skeletal Muscle Tissue

Skeletal muscle tissue is attached to the bones and is responsible for voluntary movements. It is striated, meaning it has a striped appearance under a microscope. Skeletal muscle tissue is under conscious control and is responsible for activities such as walking, running, and lifting weights.

Cardiac Muscle Tissue

Cardiac muscle tissue is found in the heart. It is also striated but is not under conscious control. Cardiac muscle tissue contracts rhythmically to pump blood throughout the body.

Smooth Muscle Tissue

Smooth muscle tissue is found in the walls of organs and blood vessels. It is not striated and is also not under conscious control. Smooth muscle tissue is responsible for involuntary movements such as the contractions of the stomach and blood vessels.

Study Guide

1. What are the three types of muscle tissue?
2. Which type of muscle tissue is responsible for voluntary movements?
3. Where is cardiac muscle tissue found?
4. What is the function of smooth muscle tissue?
5. What is the main characteristic of skeletal muscle tissue?