Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

What type of muscle is the masseter?

1. Skeletal muscle

2. Cardiac muscle

3. Smooth muscle

4. Striated muscle

The correct answer is: Skeletal muscle

The masseter is classified as skeletal muscle, which is essential for its role in chewing. Skeletal muscles are characterized by their voluntary control, which means they are governed by the somatic nervous system and require conscious thought for movement. This type of muscle is also striated, meaning it has a banded appearance under the microscope due to the arrangement of its fibers. The masseter is specifically involved in elevating the mandible (lower jaw), allowing for the grinding and chewing of food, and it is one of the strongest muscles in the body relative to its size. In contrast, cardiac muscle, found only in the heart, operates involuntarily and is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. Smooth muscle is another type of involuntary muscle found in various hollow organs such as the intestines and blood vessels, playing a role in involuntary movements like digestion and blood flow. While striated muscle refers to both skeletal and cardiac muscles due to their banded appearance, in the context of this question, the primary identification of the masseter is as skeletal muscle. This understanding is crucial for anyone studying human anatomy or pursuing a career in massage therapy and related fields.