17.Classification of Muscles:
Muscles can be classified based on various criteria, including their structure, location, and function. The three main types of muscles are:
- Skeletal Muscles: Skeletal muscles are attached to the skeleton and are responsible for voluntary movements. They are striated (striped) in appearance due to the arrangement of actin and myosin filaments. Skeletal muscles work in pairs or groups to produce coordinated movements.
- Smooth Muscles: Smooth muscles, also known as involuntary muscles, are found in the walls of internal organs, blood vessels, and other structures. They are non-striated and exhibit involuntary contractions. Smooth muscles regulate various bodily functions, such as digestion, blood flow, and breathing.
- Cardiac Muscles: Cardiac muscles are found exclusively in the heart and are responsible for its contraction. They are striated like skeletal muscles but have unique properties that allow them to contract rhythmically and autonomously. Cardiac muscles are involuntary and ensure the continuous pumping of blood.
