How does the structure and function of cardiac muscle compare to skeletal muscle?

Cardiac muscle and skeletal muscle have some similarities in structure and function, but also key differences. Both types of muscle are striated, meaning they have a striped appearance under a microscope. However, cardiac muscle is involuntary and found only in the heart, while skeletal muscle is voluntary and attached to bones to help with movement. Cardiac muscle has intercalated discs that allow for rapid communication between cells, while skeletal muscle fibers are individual cells. Additionally, cardiac muscle has a longer contraction time and does not fatigue easily, while skeletal muscle can contract quickly and tires more easily.