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Multiple Choice
Which component of a neuron is responsible for transmitting signals to another cell?
A
Axon
B
Dendrite
C
Cell body
D
Nucleus
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a neuron: Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information throughout the nervous system. They consist of several key components: dendrites, a cell body (soma), an axon, and a nucleus.
Identify the function of each component: Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and convey this information to the cell body. The cell body contains the nucleus and is responsible for maintaining the neuron's health and processing information. The axon is a long, slender projection that transmits signals away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
Focus on the axon's role: The axon is specifically designed to carry electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body. These impulses, known as action potentials, travel along the axon to reach the axon terminals.
Consider the axon terminals: At the end of the axon, the axon terminals release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, the gap between neurons. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals to the next cell, which could be another neuron, a muscle cell, or a gland cell.
Conclude the function of the axon: Given its role in transmitting electrical impulses and releasing neurotransmitters, the axon is the component of the neuron responsible for transmitting signals to another cell.