Psychology neutron

Dendrites

Branchlike extensions from the neuron’s cell body that receive messages (electrical or chemical signals) from other neurons.

Receptor Sites

Special structures, usually on dendrites, that receive and bind neurotransmitters from neighboring neurons.

Cell Body(Soma)

The main part of the neuron that contains the nucleus; it integrates incoming signals and maintains cell health.

Axon

A long, thin fiber that carries electrical impulses (action potentials) away from the cell body toward other neurons, muscles, or glands.

Myelin Sheath

A fatty, insulating layer covering segments of the axon; it speeds up the transmission of neural impulses.

Nodes of Ranvier

Small gaps in the myelin sheath where ion exchange occurs; allow the action potential to “jump” from node to node, increasing speed.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers released from axon terminals that cross the synapse and bind to receptor sites on another neuron.

Action Potential

An electrical impulse generated by the movement of ions across the neuron’s membrane; it travels down the axon.

Axon Terminals

Small branches at the end of the axon that release neurotransmitters into the synapse.

Synapse

The tiny gap between neurons where neurotransmitters are released and communication occurs.