Which type of muscle is found in the heart?

Cardiac muscle is the specialized type of muscle that is exclusively found in the heart. It is distinct from both skeletal and smooth muscles in terms of structure, function, and control. Cardiac muscle fibers are striated, similar to skeletal muscle, but they are involuntary, meaning their contraction is not under conscious control. This involuntary nature is essential for the heart's function, allowing it to rhythmically pump blood without requiring conscious thought.

Additionally, cardiac muscle cells are interconnected through intercalated discs, which allow for rapid communication and synchronization of heartbeats, facilitating effective and coordinated contractions. In contrast, skeletal muscle is primarily responsible for voluntary movements and is attached to the bones, while smooth muscle is found in the walls of hollow organs and is also involuntary. Thus, cardiac muscle is the correct answer, as it directly pertains to the structure and function of the heart.