Which type of muscle is responsible for voluntary movements?

Skeletal muscle is the type of muscle responsible for voluntary movements. This muscle tissue is connected to bones and is responsible for moving the skeleton, allowing for movements such as walking, running, and lifting. Skeletal muscles are under conscious control, meaning that individuals can decide when to contract these muscles, which is not the case with other muscle types.

In contrast, cardiac muscle, found only in the heart, is involuntary and works automatically to pump blood throughout the body. Smooth muscle also operates involuntarily, controlling the movements of internal organs like the intestines and blood vessels without conscious thought. The term "involuntary" specifically describes muscles that are not under conscious control, further highlighting why skeletal muscle is the correct choice for voluntary movement.