Which type of muscle is termed as "voluntary"?

Prepare for the iCEV Elanco Veterinary Medical Applications Certification Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to secure your certification!

Skeletal muscle is classified as "voluntary" because it is under conscious control. This means that individuals can choose to contract or relax these muscles at will, allowing for intentional movements such as walking, waving, or writing. This type of muscle is attached to the skeleton and plays a crucial role in facilitating movement throughout the body.

In contrast, cardiac muscle, which makes up the heart, operates involuntarily and is not consciously controlled. Similarly, smooth muscle, found in the walls of internal organs (like the intestines and blood vessels), also functions involuntarily, managing processes such as digestion and blood flow without conscious effort. The term "involuntary" itself typically refers to these types of muscle that cannot be controlled at will, which further distinguishes voluntary skeletal muscle from them.

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