Ap Psych Modules 1.3a-1.3b

neuron

nerve cell - basic building block of the nervous system

cell body

parts of a neuron - containing the nucleus (cells life-support center)

dendrites

branching extensions that receive messages and carry impulses toward the cell body

axon

neuron extension that carries messages to other neurons, muscles, glands

myelin sheath

fatty layer around (some) axons that speeds up impulses

glial cells (glia)

cells that support, nourish, and protect neurons; may help with learning, thinking, and memory

action potential

brief electrical impulse traveling down an axon