Tortora Chapter 9: Neuron Classification and Structure

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering neuron types, structures, and functional junctions based on the provided lecture notes from Tortora Chapter 9.

Neuron

Nerve cell

Sensory neuron

Conveys an action potential into the CNS through cranial or spinal nerves

Motor neuron

Convey action potentials away from the CNS to effectors (muscles or glands)

Interneuron

Located within the CNS between sensory and motor neurons

Multipolar neuron

Most neurons in the brain and spinal cord are of this type

Bipolar neuron

Have one main dendrite and one axon; found in the eye, ear and olfactory areas

Unipolar neuron

Neuron with short single process; dendrites of these most function as sensory receptors

Receptor

Portion of a neuron that responds to a specific sensory modality (e.g touch, cold etc)

Ganglion

Group of neuronal cell bodies lying outside the central nervous system (CNS)

Neurotransmitter

Molecules within axon terminals released into the synaptic cleft

Synapse

Functional junction between two neurons or between a neuron and an effector