The Neuron

Question 1

The Neuron

Answer 1

• a single nerve cell

- organized into bundles called nerves

Question 2

Cell Body (soma)

Answer 2

• main part of neuron

- contains nucleus and other organelles

Question 3

Dendrite

Answer 3

• short branching fibers extending from cell body

- receive electrical signals

Question 4

Axon

Answer 4

-long cylinder like fiber that transmits electrical impulses to the next neuron

Question 5

Melin Sheath

Answer 5

• a fatty protected material covering some axons
• an axon with myeline is called myelinated
• myelin increases speed at which the electrical impulse travels down the axon and protects the neuron
• It tranfers by jumping over the myeline. This is called saltatory conduction
• impulse travels on axon

Question 6

Schewan Cells

Answer 6

–a type of insulating gial cell (supportive cell) that wraps around the axon of a neuron &creates myelinated sheath

Question 7

Nodes of Ravier

Answer 7

• spaces between the myelinated sheath where the axon is uncovered
• electrical impulse must travel here

Question 8

Axon Terminal

Answer 8

• swelling at end of axon

- these endings release chemicals called neurotransmitters which communicate with the next neuron