Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of smooth muscle?

Smooth muscle is uniquely characterized by its non-striated appearance, which is a key distinguishing feature from skeletal muscle, which does have a striated appearance due to its organized fiber arrangement. Smooth muscle fibers are less organized and do not display the striations that are visible under a microscope. This non-striated structure allows smooth muscle to contract in a more uniform and controlled manner, particularly essential for involuntary functions such as those in the intestines and blood vessels.

Involuntary control is another important aspect of smooth muscle, as it operates automatically without conscious thought, which is critical for functions like digestion and blood flow regulation. Additionally, smooth muscle is indeed involved in various organs, including the intestines, where it plays a vital role in peristalsis and the propulsion of food through the digestive tract.

Given these characteristics, the striated appearance does not pertain to smooth muscle, confirming that it is the correct response in this scenario.