Structure and function of neurons
- Created by: Jordan64
- Created on: 23-08-17 18:39
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- Structure and function of neurons
- Types and function of neurons
- By transmitting signals electrically and chemically they provide the nervous system with primary means of communication
- Three types
- Motor neuron: connect CNS to effectors such as muscles and glands
- Sensory neurons: carry messages from PNS to CNS - long dendrites and short axons
- Relay neurons: connect sensory neurons to motor or other relay neurons - short dendrites and short axons
- Structure of neuron
- Cell body includes nucleus which contains genetic material of cell
- Dendrites: branch like structures that protrude from cell body - these carry nerve impulses from neighbouring neurons towards cell body
- Axon: carries electrical impulse away from cell body down length of neuron
- Covered in fatty layer of myelin sheath that protects axon
- Gaps in axon called nodes of Raviner speed up transmission of impulse
- Terminal buttons at end of axon: communicate with next neuron in chain across gap called synapse
- Electric transmission: firing of neuron
- When neuron in resting state the inside of cell negatively charged compared to outside
- When neuron activated, inside of cell becomes positively charged for split second causing action potential to occur
- Types and function of neurons
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