The Difference between Smooth Muscle and Skeletal Muscle: Understanding the Basics
When we think about muscles, the first thing that comes to mind is lifting weights at the gym or going for a run. However, muscles are far more complex than that. There are two main types of muscles in the human body, which are smooth muscle and skeletal muscle. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of muscle.
Anatomy and Function of Smooth Muscle
Smooth muscle is found in various parts of the body, including the walls of internal organs, blood vessels, and the digestive tract. It is called smooth muscle because it has a smooth appearance under the microscope due to the absence of striations (stripes) that are present in skeletal muscle. Smooth muscle is controlled by the autonomic nervous system and is responsible for involuntary movements.
One of the primary functions of smooth muscle is to push and pull substances through organs and vessels. For example, the smooth muscle in the walls of the intestine is responsible for churning and moving food through the digestive system.
Anatomy and Function of Skeletal Muscle
Skeletal muscle is the muscle that we typically associate with physical movement. It is the muscle that attaches to our bones and is responsible for voluntary movement. Skeletal muscle is striated, which means it has a striped appearance under the microscope.
Unlike smooth muscle, skeletal muscle is controlled by the somatic nervous system, which allows us to consciously control our movements. Skeletal muscle is made up of highly specialized cells called muscle fibers, and these muscle fibers are bundled together to form muscles.
One of the primary functions of skeletal muscle is to produce movement in the body. This can include anything from lifting a weight at the gym to running, jumping, or walking.
The Differences between Smooth Muscle and Skeletal Muscle
While smooth muscle and skeletal muscle are both types of muscle, there are several key differences between the two. One of the main differences is their appearance. Smooth muscle is smooth under the microscope, while skeletal muscle has a striped appearance due to its striations.
Another important difference is their location and function in the body. Smooth muscle is found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, where it is responsible for involuntary movement. Skeletal muscle, on the other hand, is attached to our bones and is responsible for voluntary movement.
Finally, the way these muscles are controlled is different. Smooth muscle is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which means we have no conscious control over its movement. Skeletal muscle, on the other hand, is controlled by the somatic nervous system, which means we have conscious control over its movement.
In conclusion, while smooth muscle and skeletal muscle may look similar, they have distinct differences in their location, function, and control. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate and care for our muscles more effectively.
Table difference between smooth muscle and skeletal muscle
| Characteristic | Smooth Muscle | Skeletal Muscle |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Muscle | Involuntary | Voluntary |
| Appearance | Non-striated | Striated |
| Location | Found in internal organs | Attached to bones and skin |
| Nucleus | Single nucleus | Multiple nuclei |
| Cell Shape | Spindle-shaped | Cylindrical |
| Contraction | Slow and sustained | Fast and powerful |
| Energy | Lower energy requirements | Higher energy requirements |