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Question 1

what are neurons?

Answer 1

individual cells that receive, integrate and transmit information

Question 2

What are the components of a neuron?

Answer 2

1. soma
2. dendrite
3. axons
4. myelin sheath
5. terminal button
6. synapse

Question 3

what is the soma?

Answer 3

contains the cell nucleus and much of the chemical machinery common in most cells.

Question 4

what are dendrites?

Answer 4

branch-like structures of the neuron that are specialized in receiving information.

Question 5

what is an axon?

Answer 5

is a long thin fiber that transmits signals away from the soma, towards other neurons, muscles and glands.

Question 6

what is a myelin sheath?

Answer 6

(1) insulating material that encases some axons, (2) speeds up the transmission of signals that move along the axons.

Question 7

what are terminal buttons?

Answer 7

small knobs at the end of axons that secrete chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Question 8

what are neurotransmitters?

Answer 8

chemicals that serve as messengers that may activate nearby neurons.

Question 9

what is a synapse?

Answer 9

(1) a junction where information is transmitted from one neuron to another (2). point at which the neurons interconnect.