In a typical neuron, what is the soma?

• A. The insulating covering formed by glial cells that increases the speed of impulse conduction
• B. The cell body that contains the nucleus and most organelles and serves as the neuron's main metabolic center
• C. The long, single process that conducts action potentials away from the cell body
• D. The branched processes that primarily receive incoming signals from other neurons

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the structure of a typical neuron, which includes the soma, dendrites, axon, and myelin sheath.
2. Step 2: Identify the soma as the part of the neuron that contains the nucleus and most of the organelles.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the soma serves as the neuron's main metabolic center, responsible for maintaining cell health and function.
4. Step 4: Differentiate the soma from other parts: dendrites receive signals, the axon conducts impulses away, and the myelin sheath insulates the axon.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the soma is the cell body of the neuron, housing the nucleus and organelles essential for metabolic activities.