Neuron and synapse step by step

What is a neuron?

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

Parts of a neuron

1. Cell body 2. Dendrites 3. Axon 4. Axon terminals

Function of dendrites

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

What is an axon?

An axon is a long, threadlike part of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the cell body.

Synapse definition

A synapse is a junction between two neurons where communication occurs.

True or false: Neurons can regenerate easily.

False, because neurons have a limited ability to regenerate after injury.

Role of neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals across the synapse between neurons.

Difference between sensory and motor neurons

Sensory neurons carry signals to the brain; motor neurons carry signals from the brain to muscles.

What is myelin?

Myelin is a fatty substance that insulates axons, speeding up nerve impulse transmission.

Fill in the blank: The gap between neurons is called the __________.

synaptic cleft.

Function of the cell body

The cell body contains the nucleus and organelles, maintaining the neuron's health.

Which part of the neuron sends signals?

The axon sends signals away from the neuron.

True or false: All neurons have the same shape.

False, because neurons have different shapes based on their function.

What happens at the synapse?

Neurotransmitters are released, allowing communication between neurons.

Comparison: Unipolar vs. multipolar neurons

Unipolar neurons have one process; multipolar neurons have multiple processes.

Function of axon terminals

Axon terminals release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Which of the following is a neurotransmitter?

Examples include dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

What is an action potential?

An action potential is a rapid change in electrical charge that travels along the axon.

Fill in the blank: The __________ helps speed up nerve impulse transmission.

myelin sheath.