How does contraction and relaxation in smooth muscle compare to that in skeletal muscle?
A) it is faster in smooth muscle than in skeletal muscle
B) it is slower in smooth muscle than in skeletal muscle
C) it occurs at the same speed in smooth muscle as in skeletal muscle
D) smooth muscle does not relax

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Contraction and relaxation in smooth muscle is slower than in skeletal muscle. Smooth muscle lacks the striated appearance of skeletal muscle, which is due to the arrangement of actin and myosin fibers. Instead, smooth muscle has a more random arrangement of these fibers, which causes the process of contraction and relaxation to be slower. Additionally, smooth muscle is capable of maintaining a sustained contraction, which is not possible in skeletal muscle.

How Does Contraction and Relaxation in Smooth Muscle Compare to That