AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which muscle type is both striated and voluntary?

1. Cardiac

2. Smooth

3. Skeletal

4. Involuntary

The correct answer is: Skeletal

Skeletal muscle is the type of muscle that is both striated and voluntary. This muscle tissue is characterized by its striped appearance due to the arrangement of actin and myosin filaments, which are responsible for muscle contraction. The striations are visible under a microscope, setting skeletal muscle apart from smooth muscle, which lacks striations and has a more uniform appearance. Skeletal muscle is under voluntary control, meaning that its contraction is consciously regulated by the nervous system. This allows individuals to perform actions such as walking, lifting objects, and other movements that require intentional muscle use. The ability to control these muscles is essential for a wide range of physical activities. In contrast, cardiac muscle, while striated like skeletal muscle, is involuntary and is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Smooth muscle, found in various organs such as the intestines and blood vessels, also lacks striations and is involuntarily controlled. Thus, skeletal muscle is unique in being both striated and consciously controlled, making it the correct answer to the question.