What structure in the neuron facilitates the transmission of electrical signals away from the cell body?

What structure in the neuron facilitates the transmission of electrical signals away from the cell body?

• A. Synapse
• B. Dendrites
• C. Axon
• D. Myelin sheath

Answer: (C)

The structure in the neuron that facilitates the transmission of electrical signals away from the cell body is the axon. The axon is a long, cable-like projection that extends from the soma (cell body) of the neuron. Its primary function is to carry action potentials, which are rapid changes in membrane potential, away from the cell body towards other neurons, muscles, or glands. This is crucial for the propagation of nerve impulses across long distances in the body. The axon is often covered by a fatty layer known as the myelin sheath, which insulates it and increases the speed of electrical transmission. However, it is the axon itself that is responsible for conducting these signals. Dendrites are involved in receiving signals from other neurons and conveying them toward the cell body, while synapses are the junctions where neurons communicate with each other. Understanding these structures helps clarify their specific roles in neuronal signaling.

The structure in the neuron that facilitates the transmission of electrical signals away from the cell body is the axon. The axon is a long, cable-like projection that extends from the soma (cell body) of the neuron. Its primary function is to carry action potentials, which are rapid changes in membrane potential, away from the cell body towards other neurons, muscles, or glands. This is crucial for the propagation of nerve impulses across long distances in the body.

The axon is often covered by a fatty layer known as the myelin sheath, which insulates it and increases the speed of electrical transmission. However, it is the axon itself that is responsible for conducting these signals.

Dendrites are involved in receiving signals from other neurons and conveying them toward the cell body, while synapses are the junctions where neurons communicate with each other. Understanding these structures helps clarify their specific roles in neuronal signaling.