Neurons and Nervous System

A set of flashcards covering key concepts, definitions, and functions of neurons and related structures in the nervous system.

Neuron

The building blocks of the nervous system that receive and transmit signals to different parts of the body.

Dendrites

Branch-like structures of a neuron that receive messages from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.

Cell Body

The part of a neuron that contains the nucleus and other components like Golgi body and mitochondria.

Axon

A tube-like structure that carries electrical impulses from the cell body to the axon terminals.

Synapse

The chemical junction between the terminal of one neuron and the dendrites of another neuron.

Sensory Neuron

Carries impulses from the receptors to the spinal cord.

Relay Neuron

Carries impulses to and from the spinal cord and the brain.

Motor Neuron

Carries impulses from the brain to the effector.

Receptors

Specialized cells that detect changes in the environment (stimulus) and produce electrical impulses in response.

Effectors

Parts of the body, such as muscles and glands, that produce a response to a detected stimulus.

Reflex Arc

The nerve pathway followed by a reflex action.