Which muscle type is characterized by cylindrical fibers and controls voluntary movements?

Skeletal muscle is characterized by cylindrical fibers and is responsible for controlling voluntary movements. This type of muscle is striated, meaning it has a banded appearance due to the arrangement of actin and myosin filaments, which are essential for muscle contraction. Skeletal muscle fibers are attached to bones by tendons, allowing for a wide range of movements such as lifting, running, and other physical activities. The ability to consciously control these muscles is what distinguishes skeletal muscle from cardiac and smooth muscle, which operate involuntarily.

In contrast to skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle is also striated but is found only in the heart, functioning involuntarily to pump blood. Smooth muscle is non-striated and is found in the walls of hollow organs, such as the intestines and blood vessels, also working involuntarily. Connective tissue serves to support and bind other tissues but does not contract or facilitate movement like muscle fibers do. Thus, the defining attributes of skeletal muscle fiber structure and voluntary control affirm why this answer is the most suitable choice.