Nerves - Structure and Function

Front

What is the basic functional unit of the nervous system?

Back

Neuron

Front

What is the role of the Node of Ranvier in a neuron?

Back

It facilitates the rapid conduction of nerve impulses by allowing ions to flow in and out of the neuron.

Front

What part of the neuron is responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body?

Back

Axon

Front

What type of neurons carry signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system?

Back

Afferent neurons (sensory neurons)

Front

What type of neurons carry signals from the central nervous system to muscles and glands?

Back

Efferent neurons (motor neurons)

Front

What happens during the depolarization of a neuron?

Back

Sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to enter the neuron, making the inside more positive.

Front

What is myelin and what is its function?

Back

Myelin is a fatty substance that insulates axons and increases the speed of nerve impulse transmission.

Front

What is the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Back

The part of the nervous system that consists of all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Front

What is the difference between afferent and efferent neurons?

Back

Afferent neurons carry signals to the central nervous system, while efferent neurons carry signals away from the central nervous system.

Front

What is the significance of the axon in a neuron?

Back

The axon is crucial for transmitting electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body to other neurons or muscles.