Non Myelinated axons differ from myelinated in that they :-a)Are more ...
Myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers are the two forms of nerve fibers that are found in the nervous system. The main difference between myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers is that myelinated nerve fibers contain a myelin insulation whereas unmyelinated nerve fibers do not contain a myeline insulation.
View all questions of this test
Non Myelinated axons differ from myelinated in that they :-a)Are more ...
Non Myelinated axons differ from myelinated in that they lack nodes of Ranvier
Non-myelinated axons are nerve fibers that do not have a myelin sheath surrounding them. Myelin is a fatty substance that acts as an insulator, increasing the speed at which electrical signals can travel along the axon. The absence of myelin in non-myelinated axons means that they have a different structure and function compared to myelinated axons.
Nodes of Ranvier
Nodes of Ranvier are small gaps or spaces that occur between the myelin sheath along the length of a myelinated axon. These nodes play a crucial role in increasing the speed of nerve signal transmission. They allow for saltatory conduction, which is the rapid jumping of electrical signals from one node to another, effectively speeding up the transmission of nerve impulses.
Lack of Nodes of Ranvier in non-myelinated axons
Non-myelinated axons, as mentioned earlier, lack a myelin sheath. Without the presence of myelin, the axons do not have nodes of Ranvier. Instead, the axons are surrounded by Schwann cells, which provide support and insulation to the nerve fibers.
Importance of Nodes of Ranvier
Nodes of Ranvier are essential for efficient nerve signal transmission. The presence of nodes allows for saltatory conduction, where the electrical signal jumps from one node to the next. This process significantly increases the speed at which nerve impulses can travel along the axon.
Consequences of lacking Nodes of Ranvier in non-myelinated axons
The absence of nodes of Ranvier in non-myelinated axons means that nerve impulses cannot undergo saltatory conduction. Instead, the electrical signals propagate continuously along the axon, at a slower speed compared to myelinated axons. This slower conduction velocity is due to the absence of the nodes, which would otherwise help to regenerate and amplify the electrical signal at each node. Without the nodes of Ranvier, the propagation of the electrical signal is continuous, resulting in a slower transmission speed.
Conclusion
In summary, non-myelinated axons lack nodes of Ranvier, which are crucial for increasing the speed of nerve signal transmission. Without these nodes, the conduction velocity of nerve impulses along non-myelinated axons is slower compared to myelinated axons.
Non Myelinated axons differ from myelinated in that they :-a)Are more ...
B Lack nodes of Ranvier
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.