Functions: Anatomy of the Neuron

Question 1

soma/cell body

Answer 1

The formation and production of neurotransmitters. The metabolic base and holds DNA

Question 2

dendrites

Answer 2

treelike receiving zones for neurotransmitters

Question 3

axon

Answer 3

single projection off soma carrying electrical impulses (1 true axon)

Question 4

collateral axon

Answer 4

loose wire, communicates with many other cell dendrites

Question 5

axon hillock

Answer 5

cone shaped region at the end of the soma and the beginning of the axon. The site of the first electrical charge.

Question 6

Myelin

Answer 6

fatty insulation, protects the electrical signal throughout the axon

Question 7

node of ranvier

Answer 7

gapes within the myelin for the electrical signal to pass through, different ions enter and exit the cell.

Question 8

terminal bouton (button)

Answer 8

where the synaptic vesicles are held, sending the signal on to other neurons.

Question 9

synaptic vesicle

Answer 9

storage bin for neurotransmitters. Signaled to release neurotransmitter by electrical message in axon

Question 10

synapse

Answer 10

space where electrical signals are sent from an axon terminal to another dendrite of another axon (transfers from neuro to neuro)

Question 11

what size is the synapse?

Answer 11

20 nm

Question 12

nucleus

Answer 12

houses the genetic information in the neuron