Which neural component is described as the central process of a neuron that conducts impulses?

Which neural component is described as the central process of a neuron that conducts impulses?

• A. Dendrite
• B. Axon
• C. Soma
• D. Synapse

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is which neuron part actually carries electrical impulses. The axon is specialized to conduct action potentials away from the cell body toward the synapses. That makes it the neuron's impulse-carrying cable. Dendrites are the input antennas that collect signals from other neurons, and the soma (cell body) integrates those inputs. The synapse is where communication occurs between neurons, not where the impulse travels along the neuron. In myelinated axons, conduction is sped up by saltatory conduction, with impulses jumping between nodes of Ranvier.

The main idea here is which neuron part actually carries electrical impulses. The axon is specialized to conduct action potentials away from the cell body toward the synapses. That makes it the neuron's impulse-carrying cable. Dendrites are the input antennas that collect signals from other neurons, and the soma (cell body) integrates those inputs. The synapse is where communication occurs between neurons, not where the impulse travels along the neuron. In myelinated axons, conduction is sped up by saltatory conduction, with impulses jumping between nodes of Ranvier.