Question

The junction between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite of the next is called (a) constant bridge (b) junction point (c) joint (d) synapse

Short answer

The correct answer is (d) synapse.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Neuron Structure

Begin by understanding the basic structure of a neuron. Neurons are the building blocks of the nervous system. Each neuron has a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Signals within a neuron travel from the dendrites through the cell body and down the axon to the next neuron.

Identifying the Connection Point

Identify what the connection point between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite of another neuron is called. This is where the signal is transferred from one neuron to another.

Recalling the Correct Term

Recall that the correct term for the junction between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite of another is known as the synapse. This is where neurotransmitters are released, allowing the signal to pass to the next neuron.

Choosing the Correct Answer

Review the given options and choose the one that accurately represents the junction between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite of another. The correct term is 'synapse'.

Key concepts

Neuron Structure

Neurons are pivotal components of the nervous system, playing a crucial role in transmitting information throughout the body. At the core of understanding how neurons communicate is recognizing their distinct structure. Each neuron consists of several key parts: the cell body (or soma), which contains the nucleus and maintains the cell's vitality; dendrites, tree-like extensions that receive signals from other neurons; and the axon, a long, slender projection that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body.

The axon can be covered by a myelin sheath, which acts as an insulating layer to speed up the transmission of impulses. At the end of an axon are the axon terminals, which are responsible for sending the signal to other neurons or cells. Here lies the critical point of communication, the synapse, which is the gap between two neurons. Ensuring the student grasps this structure is fundamental to their understanding of neuronal communication and the nervous system as a whole.

Neurotransmitters

The transmission of signals across the synapse relies on the release of special chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters. These compounds are stored in small sacs called synaptic vesicles at the axon terminals. When a nerve impulse reaches the end of an axon, the vesicles fuse with the terminal's membrane and release their content into the synaptic cleft, the extracellular space between neurons.

Types of Neurotransmitters

There are many different types of neurotransmitters, each serving a unique role in the nervous system. For instance, dopamine is associated with reward and pleasure mechanisms, while acetylcholine plays a significant role in muscle contraction and memory. Admission of the variety and function of neurotransmitters can widen the student's comprehension of how complex and finely-tuned neural communication really is.

• Excitatory neurotransmitters encourage the creation of a new action potential in the receiving neuron.
• Inhibitory neurotransmitters prevent action potentials, thus inhibiting neural activity.

Explaining the nature of neurotransmitters and their critical role in neural communication provides insight into the vast array of biological processes regulated by the nervous system.

Nervous System

The nervous system is an extensive network that coordinates every action and sensation in the human body. It can be categorized into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), comprising the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which includes all the nerves and ganglia outside the brain and spinal cord.

Communication in the nervous system is a highly sophisticated process involving millions of neurons. Individual neurons transmit information via electrical impulses internally and communicate with each other through chemical signals at synapses, as established by neurotransmitters.

• The CNS processes information from the PNS and coordinates the body's response.
• The PNS transmits sensory information to the CNS and carries motor commands to muscles and glands.

Imparting knowledge about the organization and function of the nervous system is vital for students as it lays the foundation for understanding how our bodies perceive, respond to, and interact with the surrounding environment. It is also instrumental in the study of numerous physiological and psychological phenomena.