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Which is more common, unitary or multi-unit smooth muscle?

1) Unitary smooth muscle
2) Multi-unit smooth muscle

User Iamamused
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Unitary smooth muscle is more common than multi-unit smooth muscle. It is found in visceral organs, contracts as a single unit, and has the ability to adapt to different lengths, which is crucial for organ function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The more common type of smooth muscle is unitary smooth muscle. Multi-unit smooth muscle is found in specific locations such as large blood vessels and the eyes, where individual muscle fiber control is required. Unitary smooth muscle, on the other hand, is found in the walls of visceral organs and operates as a single unit due to the presence of gap junctions.

This allows for coordinated contractions essential for the movement of substances through the body. Unitary smooth muscle can adapt to various stretches due to a stress-relaxation response, while multi-unit smooth muscle relies on autonomic nerves or hormones for stimulation.

Unitary smooth muscle is more common than multi-unit smooth muscle. Unitary smooth muscle is found in the walls of all visceral organs except the heart. It contracts as a single unit due to the presence of gap junctions between its muscle fibers. This allows for coordinated contractions, such as the movement of food through the digestive tract.

User Joseph Wright
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