Neurons Structure & Function

Front

What is the function of the axon in a neuron?

Back

The axon transmits electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

Front

What are dendrites and what is their role in a neuron?

Back

Dendrites are branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.

Front

What is the role of the axon terminal in a neuron?

Back

The axon terminal is the endpoint of an axon where neurotransmitters are released to communicate with other neurons.

Front

Define 'neuron'.

Back

A neuron is a specialized cell that transmits nerve impulses; it is the basic building block of the nervous system.

Front

What is the myelin sheath and its function?

Back

The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that insulates axons, speeding up the transmission of electrical impulses.

Front

What is synapse?

Back

A synapse is the junction between two neurons where communication occurs through neurotransmitters.

Front

What is the significance of the cell body in a neuron?

Back

The cell body contains the nucleus and organelles, and it integrates incoming signals from dendrites.

Front

Explain the term 'action potential'.

Back

An action potential is a rapid rise and fall in voltage across a neuron's membrane, allowing the transmission of signals.

Front

What is the difference between sensory neurons and motor neurons?

Back

Sensory neurons carry signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system, while motor neurons transmit signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands.

Front

What is the role of neurotransmitters in neuronal communication?

Back

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals across the synapse from one neuron to another.