Ap Psych nerve cells Unit 2

Learning more definitions, why oh why.

Axon

The long, slender projection of a neuron that carries electrical signals ( action potentials) away from the cell body. It serves as the main communication path for transmitting information to other neurons, muscles, or glands

Dendrite

Banch-like extensions of a neuron that receive incoming signals from other neurons. They conduct electrical impulses towards the cell body for processing.

Cell Body (Soma)

Contains the nucleus and organelles of the neuron. It integrates incoming signals from dendrites and initiates ongoing signals through the axon.

Cell Membrane

The outer boundary of the neuron that controls what enters and leaves the cell. It plays a crucial role in maintaining electrical balance and enabling action potentia

Nucleus

Located inside the cell body and contains the neuron's genetic material (DNA). It directs cellular functions such as protein synthesis and neuron maintenance

Myelin Sheath

A fatty, insulating layer that covers segments of the axon. It increases the speed and efficiency of neutral signal Transmission.

Axon Terminal

Small structures at the ends of axons that release neurotransmitters. They enable communication with neighboring neurons or target cells across the synapses.

Schwann Cell

Glial cells in the peripheral nervous system that produce myelin. They help insulate axons and support nerve regeneration

Node of Ranvier:

Small groups in the myelin sheath along the axon. They allow action potential to “jump” between nodes, speeding up signal conduction.

Vesicles

Tiny sacs inside the axon terminals that store neurotransmitters. When triggered, they release their contents into the synaptic cleft.

Action Potential

An electrical impulse that travels along the axon. It occurs when a neuron reaches its threshold and rapidly depolarizes and repolarizes.

Motor Neuron

Carry signals from the central nervous system to the muscles and glands. They enable voluntary and involuntary movements.

Mirror Neuron

Fire both when an individual performs an action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. They are believed to play a role in learning, empathy, and imitation.

Synapses

The junction between two neurons, or between a neuron and a Target cell. It allows the transition of information through neurotransmitters.

Sensory Neuron

Carry information from sensory receptors ( like skin, eyes, ears) to the central nervous system. They allow perception of stimuli such as touch, light, and sound.

Interneurons

Connect neurons within the central nervous system. They play a critical role in processing information and coordinating responses.

Afferent Neurons

Transmit sensory information from the body to the central nervous system. They help the brain process external and internal stimuli.

Efferent Neurons

Carry commands from the central nervous system to the muscles or glands. They are essential for producing movement and responses.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical Messengers released by the neurons into the synapse. They bind to receptor sites on other neurons, influencing whether the neuron fires.

Receptor Sites

Specialized structures on the surface of neurons that bind neurotransmitters. They determine the effect of chemical signals on the receiving neuron.