Skeletal muscle (striated)

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Description:

Skeletal muscle tissue is named for its location - it is usually attached to the bones of the skeleton. Another distinctive feature is its striations, alternating light and dark bands within the fibers that are visible under a light microscope. Skeletal muscle is considered voluntary because it can be made to contract or relax by conscious control. Skeletal muscle fibers can vary greatly in length, ranging from a few centimeters in short muscles to up to 30-40 cm (about 12-16 inches) in the longest muscles.