In a neuron, what is the primary function of the axon terminal?

• A. Synthesizes most of the neuron's ATP and detoxifies reactive oxygen species
• B. Forms the myelin sheath to electrically insulate the axon and speed conduction
• C. Receives incoming signals from other neurons through ligand-gated ion channels
• D. Releases neurotransmitters to communicate with the next cell at a synapse

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the structure of a neuron, which includes the cell body (soma), dendrites, axon, and axon terminals. Each part has a specific function in neural communication.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the axon terminal is the distal end of the axon, where it connects to other neurons or effector cells at a synapse.
3. Step 3: Recall that the primary role of the axon terminal is to transmit signals to the next cell by releasing chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.
4. Step 4: Differentiate this function from other options: ATP synthesis and detoxification occur mainly in the cell body and mitochondria; myelin sheath formation is done by glial cells like Schwann cells or oligodendrocytes; and receiving signals happens at dendrites, not axon terminals.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the axon terminal's main function is to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, enabling communication between neurons or between neurons and other target cells.