5 Questions
What is the function of the axon in a neuron?
Conducts electrical signals away from the cell body
Which part of the neuron acts as the 'gate-keeper' for determining whether an action potential will be fired?
Axon hillock
What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?
Branch-like structures that conduct information towards the cell body
Which part of the neuron protects the nucleus and cell contents?
Soma (cell body)
What is the role of the nucleus in a neuron?
Acts as the 'engine room' of the cell
Study Notes
- The nervous system is composed of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
- Central Nervous System includes the brain and spinal cord.
- Peripheral Nervous System connects the CNS to structures in the body and is the only area where axon regrowth occurs.
- A neuron is the functional unit of the nervous system, transmitting information.
- There are approximately 86 billion neurons in the human brain, with an average length of 160,000km.
- The neuron includes the soma (cell body), which protects the nucleus and maintains the negative charge; dendrites, branch-like structures that receive information; axon, a long nerve fiber that delivers electrical signals; and axon hillock, which processes signals and determines if an action potential will be fired.
- The nucleus, located within the cell body, contains all genetic material and produces neurotransmitters.
Test your knowledge on the classification of the nervous system into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) along with the functional units of the nervous system, neurons.
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