TED-Ed: How fast is the speed of thought? | Seena Mathew

The video explores a hypothetical experiment where a thought must reach a target before an arrow. It delves into neuron function, signal transmission, and factors affecting thought speed, such as myelination and axon diameter. The knee-jerk reflex is used as a simple example of neural pathways. The video concludes by analyzing the race between thought and arrow, considering perception and reaction times.

What is the primary function of neurons in the human brain?

• To transmit signals

• To store memories

• To regulate emotions

• To produce hormones

In the knee-jerk reflex, what is the approximate speed at which the signal travels?

• 360 to 480 kilometers per hour

• 240 to 360 kilometers per hour

• 120 to 240 kilometers per hour

• 60 to 120 kilometers per hour

What role does myelin play in neural signal transmission?

• It increases the resistance within axons

• It decreases the speed of signal transmission

• It insulates axons to prevent signal loss

• It generates electrical impulses

How does the diameter of an axon affect the speed of neural signals?

• Smaller diameters increase speed

• Larger diameters increase resistance

• Larger diameters decrease resistance

• Smaller diameters decrease speed

What is a potential advantage of a sufficiently long, myelinated neuron in the thought experiment?

• It can process complex thoughts more efficiently

• It can store more information

• It can generate more action potentials

• It can transmit signals faster than an arrow