What type of muscle is responsible for involuntary movements in the heart?

Cardiac muscle is the type of muscle responsible for involuntary movements in the heart. It is unique to the heart, where it performs the essential function of pumping blood throughout the body without conscious control. Cardiac muscle fibers are striated, similar to skeletal muscle, but they differ in that they are not under voluntary control and have a specific ability to contract rhythmically and continuously.

Cardiac muscle cells are interconnected by intercalated discs, allowing for efficient transmission of electrical impulses, which coordinate heartbeats. This synchronization is crucial for maintaining a consistent and effective heartbeat essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues. The involuntary nature of cardiac muscle is a key characteristic that separates it from skeletal muscle, which is responsible for voluntary movements and is under conscious control.