When comparing cardiac muscle cells and skeletal muscle cells,
A) the rate of action potential propagation is faster in cardiac muscle.
B) both possess intercalated discs.
C) only skeletal muscle has a plateau phase in its contraction cycle.
D) action potentials are conducted from cell to cell only in cardiac muscle.
E) both are voluntary.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cardiac muscle cells are unique in that they conduct action potentials from cell to cell through specialized junctions known as intercalated discs, which contain gap junctions. This allows for the synchronized contraction necessary for effective heart function. Skeletal muscle fibers, on the other hand, are stimulated individually by motor neurons and do not have this cell-to-cell electrical conduction capability.

When Comparing Cardiac Muscle Cells and Skeletal Muscle Cells