What is responsible for the peristalsis that occurs in the digestive tract?

Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. The smooth muscle, which is found in the walls of the digestive organs, is specifically adapted for this involuntary movement. Unlike skeletal muscle, which is under voluntary control and primarily responsible for movements like walking or lifting, smooth muscle operates without conscious thought, enabling the continuous and rhythmic contractions necessary for digestion.

Connective tissue provides structural support but does not facilitate movement itself, while subcutaneous tissue, which primarily consists of fat and serves as insulation, is not involved in the digestive process. Therefore, the correct answer accurately identifies that smooth muscle is the key component responsible for the peristalsis that propels food through the digestive system.