Chapter Two

Question 1

Describe a Neuron

Answer 1

A neuron is the basic cellular building block of the brain and nervous system. It acts as a messenger and sends information to and from the brain and other parts of the body. It allows certain messages to be sent so that you can move and act in the ways that you choose.

Question 2

Nerve AKA Nerve Cell:

Answer 2

A neuron is also called a “nerve cell” because groups of neurons make up a nerve, a term you’re probably familiar with. Nerves transmit information throughout the rest of the body.

Question 3

Soma

Answer 3

The central part of the neuron, which contains all the basic parts of a cell (nucleus, mitochondria, etc.); the cell body.

Question 4

Dendrites

Answer 4

The part of the neuron that branches out into many smaller parts, which receive signals from other neurons.

Question 5

Axons

Answer 5

The long tail-like structure that comes off of the cell body and sends signals along the cell and out to other cells.

Question 6

Myelin Sheath

Answer 6

A layer of fatty cells that covers some neurons’ axons and allows them to transmit information faster in the brain.

Question 7

What are two different ways in which the nervous system communicates?

Answer 7

1. Impulses are sent within a neuron. Electrical charges are sent from the dendrites all the way down to the axon.
2. There is also communication between neurons. Neurons use those electrical charges to transmit information within the cell.