In terms of nervous system control, is skeletal muscle considered voluntary or involuntary?

• A. Voluntary
• B. Both voluntary and involuntary in equal measure
• C. Neither; it is controlled only by hormones
• D. Involuntary

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between voluntary and involuntary control in the nervous system: Voluntary control involves conscious decision-making and intentional movement, while involuntary control happens automatically without conscious thought.
2. Recall that skeletal muscle is primarily attached to bones and is responsible for body movements such as walking, lifting, and other deliberate actions.
3. Recognize that skeletal muscle is controlled by the somatic nervous system, which governs voluntary movements through motor neurons that transmit signals from the brain to the muscles.
4. Contrast this with smooth and cardiac muscles, which are controlled involuntarily by the autonomic nervous system and hormones, meaning they function without conscious control.
5. Conclude that because skeletal muscle movements are consciously controlled and initiated by the somatic nervous system, skeletal muscle is considered voluntary in terms of nervous system control.