Which type of muscle is found in the heart?

Cardiac muscle is the type of muscle specifically found in the heart. It is unique because it has characteristics of both skeletal and smooth muscle but operates under involuntary control, which means it functions without conscious thought. Cardiac muscle cells are striated like skeletal muscle, allowing for contraction in a manner that is both strong and rhythmic, essential for pumping blood throughout the body. These cells are interconnected through specialized junctions called intercalated discs, which facilitate synchronized contraction.

The other muscle types mentioned are not found in the heart. Skeletal muscle is attached to bones and is under voluntary control, allowing for movement and posture. Smooth muscle is found in the walls of hollow organs and is also involuntary, but it does not have the striated appearance or unique structural properties of cardiac muscle. Voluntary muscle refers to muscles that can be consciously controlled, which does not apply to the heart's muscular structure.