structure and function of neurones Flashcards
3 types of neurone
sensory, motor and relay
what are neurones
nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord etc
what do neurones do
receive info and transmit it to other neurones
what do neurones typically consist of
cell body, dendrites, axon
but each has unique structure related to its function
how do neurones work (4 points)
- electrochemical messages/ nerve impulses conducted into cell body by dendrites
- axon conducts these away
3.when impulse reaches end of axon, passed onto another neuron, gland or organ via axon terminals - NT are the chemicals that pass from one neuron to another to pass signal
where is a motor neuron found
CNS
what do motor neurones do
control muscle movements
when stimulated, release NT that bind to receptors on muscles to trigger response leading to movement
where are relay neurones found
between sensory input and motor output, in the brain and spinal cord
what do relay neurones do
allow sensory and motor neurones to communicate
where are sensory neurones found
in receptors such as eyes, ears, tongue and skin
what do sensory receptors do
carry nerve impulses to spinal cord and brain. when they reach the brain they are translated into sensations eg vision
what happens if neurones do not reach the brain
they stop at the spinal cord allowing for reflex action
