Chapter 12 The Neuron and Nervous System

Front

What is a neuron?

Back

A neuron is a specialized cell that transmits nerve impulses in the nervous system.

Front

What are the main parts of a neuron?

Back

The main parts of a neuron are the cell body, dendrites, and axon.

Front

What is the function of dendrites?

Back

Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.

Front

What is the role of the axon?

Back

The axon transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles.

Front

What is myelination?

Back

Myelination is the process of forming a myelin sheath around the axon, which increases the speed of nerve impulse transmission.

Front

What type of neuron is never myelinated?

Back

Unmyelinated neurons are those that do not have a myelin sheath.

Front

What is the function of the afferent division of the peripheral nervous system?

Back

The afferent division brings sensory information to the central nervous system.

Front

What are ependymal cells?

Back

Ependymal cells are ciliated neuroglia in the CNS that help circulate cerebrospinal fluid.

Front

What is the role of astrocytes in the nervous system?

Back

Astrocytes support neurons, maintain the blood-brain barrier, and regulate blood flow.

Front

What are oligodendrocytes?

Back

Oligodendrocytes are glial cells in the CNS that produce myelin sheaths for axons.