Describe the main components of a neuron and explain how it transmits information

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

There are four main components to a neuron: dendrites, which receive information from other neurons; a soma (cell body), which handles basic metabolic functioning of the neuron and contains the neuron's genetic instructions? an axon, which conveys information towards other neurons; and terminal buttons, which release neurotransmitters to adjacent neurons. Normally, the inside of the neuron is negatively charged (–70 mV) with respect to the outside because of the unequal distribution of ions. Information is conducted along the axon by means of an action potential, a rapid change in electric potential from –70 mV to +50 mV and back again. This occurs when the neuron receives adequate stimulation from the neurons communicating with it.