The function of an axon isa)Transformation of nerve impulseb)Receptio...
An axon is also known as a nerve fiber. It is a long, slender projection of a nerve cell, or neuron, that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body. The function of the axon is to transmit information to different neurons, muscles, and glands.
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The function of an axon isa)Transformation of nerve impulseb)Receptio...
The function of an axon is the conduction of nerve impulse. Let's break down this answer and understand why it is the correct option.
What is an Axon?
An axon is a long, slender fiber that extends from the cell body of a neuron. It is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses, known as nerve impulses or action potentials, away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
Conduction of Nerve Impulse
The primary function of an axon is to conduct nerve impulses. When a neuron receives a stimulus, either from another neuron or from the environment, it generates an electrical signal called an action potential. This electrical signal is initiated at the cell body and travels down the axon to the axon terminals.
How does the Axon Conduct Nerve Impulses?
The axon is specialized for the efficient and rapid conduction of nerve impulses. It achieves this through its structure and properties:
1. Myelin Sheath: Some axons are surrounded by a fatty substance called myelin, which acts as an insulating layer. This myelin sheath helps to speed up the conduction of nerve impulses by preventing the dissipation of electrical signals.
2. Nodes of Ranvier: In between the myelin sheath, there are small gaps called Nodes of Ranvier. These nodes allow the nerve impulse to "jump" from one node to another, a process known as saltatory conduction. This enables the nerve impulse to travel faster along the axon.
3. Axon Diameter: The diameter of the axon also influences the speed of conduction. Larger axons have less resistance to the flow of electrical signals and can transmit nerve impulses faster than smaller axons.
4. Synaptic Terminals: At the end of the axon, there are specialized structures called synaptic terminals or axon terminals. These terminals form synapses with other neurons or target cells. When the nerve impulse reaches the synaptic terminals, it triggers the release of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters, which allow the signal to be passed on to the next neuron or target cell.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the function of an axon is the conduction of nerve impulses. It serves as a pathway for electrical signals to travel away from the cell body of a neuron to other neurons or target cells. The axon's structure and properties, such as the myelin sheath, nodes of Ranvier, axon diameter, and synaptic terminals, contribute to the efficient and rapid transmission of these nerve impulses.
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