What type of muscle is primarily involved in the movement of blood through the circulatory system?

The movement of blood through the circulatory system is primarily the responsibility of cardiac muscle. This type of muscle is found exclusively in the heart and is specialized for continuous contraction and relaxation. Cardiac muscle cells are striated and involuntary, meaning they operate without conscious control, allowing the heart to pump blood rhythmically and effectively. This is crucial for maintaining blood circulation throughout the body.

Skeletal muscle, while also striated, is under voluntary control and is primarily responsible for body movements and posture rather than the autonomous function of pumping blood. Smooth muscle, found in various internal organs and blood vessels, is also involuntary but plays a different role, such as regulating the diameter of blood vessels rather than pumping blood itself. Adipose tissue, on the other hand, does not have any muscular function and is primarily involved in energy storage and insulation, further underscoring why it is not relevant in this context.