Within a neuron, information flows in the following direction:
a. axon, cell body, terminal, dendrites
b. terminal, axon, dendrites, cell body
c. dendrites, cell body, axon, terminal
d. cell body, dendrites, terminal, axon
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. dendrites, cell body, axon, terminal.
Neurons are specialized cells that transmit electrical signals within the body. The flow of information through a neuron follows a specific order to ensure effective communication. The process begins when a signal is received by the dendrites, which are the branched extensions of the neuron that detect signals from other neurons or sensory cells. These signals are usually in the form of neurotransmitters that bind to receptors on the dendrites.
Once the dendrites receive the signal, it travels to the cell body (also called the soma). The cell body contains the nucleus and other essential organelles. Here, the signal is processed, and if it is strong enough, the neuron generates an action potential (an electrical impulse). This electrical impulse then travels down the axon, a long, slender projection that conducts electrical signals away from the cell body. The axon is often covered by a myelin sheath, which speeds up the transmission of the signal.
The action potential travels along the axon until it reaches the axon terminals. These are the small branches at the end of the axon that release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft (the small gap between neurons). The neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the dendrites of the next neuron, continuing the signal transmission.
This directional flow of information ensures that neurons effectively communicate, transmitting signals from one neuron to another or to other cells in the body, such as muscle cells or glands. It is essential for various bodily functions, including reflexes, sensory processing, and higher cognitive functions.