Question

22. Compare the characteristics of smooth muscle and skeletal muscle. How are they different? What is similar? 23. Differentiate between the basics of the two types of smooth muscle tissue (single-unit and multi unit). Which ones have a pacemaker? Which ones don't? Where can you find each? 24. What is the modiolus? What are the structures that insert into the modiolus? 25. What is the structure that supplies motor innervation to the muscles of facial expression?

Answer 1

Ans 22: DIFFERENCES

SKELETAL MUSCLE	SMOOTH MUSCLE
Skeletal muscles are attached to the skeletons/bones.	Smooth muscles lines up the visceral organs such as the lining of the intestine, blood vessels etc., therefore they are known as visceral muscles.
Skeletal muscles perform voluntary functions.	Smooth muscles perform involuntary reflexes and actions.
Skeletal muscles are striated and hence also known as striated muscles.	Smooth muscle as the name suggests are smooth in appearance and is devoid of any striations.
Calcium plays an important role in the contraction of skeletal muscles.	Contraction of smooth muscles is brought about by acetylcholine and norepinephrine.
Skeletal muscles helps in performing functions such as running, walking, climbing etc.,	Smooth muscles helps in performing vital body functions such as peristalsis etc.,
Troponin is present in skeletal muscles, which is a Ca binding protein.	Calmodulin is present instead.

SIMILARITIES

Both are types of muscle found in human body, the primary function of both types of muscles is the regulation of contraction and relaxation which brings forth various voluntary or involuntary actions.

Both the type of muscles requires a chemical messenger to bring about contraction.

Both the types of muscles perform structural and functional roles in human body.