Relative to neuron anatomy, match the anatomical terms given in Column B with the appropriate descriptions of functions provided in Column A_ Place the corresponding letter of the term next to the definition (within the parenthesis in red) Column A Column B 1. Releases neurotransmitters axon 2. Conducts electrical currents toward the cell body ( 3. Increases the speed of impulse transmission (^ 4. Location of the nucleus (~ 5. Generally conducts impulses away from the cell body (^ B. dendrite C myelin sheath D axon terminal F. cell body’
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Here is the correct matching of the anatomical terms (Column B) to their functions (Column A):
- Releases neurotransmitters (D. axon terminal)
- Conducts electrical currents toward the cell body (B. dendrite)
- Increases the speed of impulse transmission (C. myelin sheath)
- Location of the nucleus (F. cell body)
- Generally conducts impulses away from the cell body (A. axon)
Explanation
Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system, specialized for transmitting signals throughout the body. Each part of the neuron plays a vital role in how electrical and chemical messages are received, processed, and transmitted.
Dendrites are short, branching extensions from the neuron’s cell body. Their main role is to receive incoming signals from other neurons and conduct these electrical currents toward the cell body. These signals are usually in the form of neurotransmitters binding to receptors on the dendritic membrane, triggering a change in the neuron’s electrical state.
The cell body, also called the soma, contains the nucleus and most of the cell’s organelles. It is the metabolic center of the neuron, managing the cell’s energy use and protein production. The nucleus located here houses the neuron’s genetic material and coordinates cellular activities.
An axon is a long, slender projection that carries electrical impulses away from the cell body toward other neurons, muscles, or glands. This process is essential for communication within the nervous system.
The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that wraps around the axon in segments. It serves to insulate the axon and allows electrical impulses to travel more quickly and efficiently. Myelination is especially important for long-distance neural communication.
Finally, the axon terminal is the endpoint of the axon. It is responsible for releasing neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, the space between two neurons. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the receiving neuron, continuing the signal transmission process.
Each part of the neuron works together to ensure the fast and precise communication necessary for bodily function and response.
