Neuron
A neuron is a cell specialized to conduct electrochemical impulses called nerve impulses or action potentials. Our whole body is made up of a system of neurons.
When a neuron is fired, it is an all or nothing process. This means that the neurotransmitter must be fully fired or not fired at all. Once the neurotransmitter leaves the axon, it becomes a chemical process. The afferent neurons send information to the brain. Inter-neurons send information withing different areas of the brain. Efferent neurons carry information from the brain to the body.
Different Parts of a Neuron
1. Dendrites- receive neurotransmitters from axons
2. Soma- the actual body of the neuron that contains neurotransmitters; made up of protein
3. Nucleus-contains the information
4. Synapse- distance between axon and dendrites
5. Myelin Sheath- fatty covering that insulates oxygen
6. Neurotransmitter-chemicals used to relay, amplify, and modulate signals between neurons and other cells
7. Axon- Sends neurotransmitters at fast speed to dendrites of other neurons; neurotransmitters travel through the axon at 120 m/s.ere to edit.