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What Makes Neurons Unique in Transmitting Signals Across the Body?

Neurons are special cells that help send signals all over the body. They have unique features that allow them to communicate quickly.

  1. Structure:

    • Neurons have three main parts: dendrites, a cell body, and an axon.
    • The axon can be as long as 1 meter in some cases. This helps signals travel long distances.
  2. Myelination:

    • Many neurons have a protective cover called the myelin sheath. This helps signals move faster.
    • Neurons with myelin can send messages at speeds up to 120 meters per second!
  3. Synaptic Transmission:

    • Neurons communicate at places called synapses, where they release chemicals called neurotransmitters.
    • There are more than 100 different neurotransmitters, like dopamine and serotonin.
  4. Action Potentials:

    • Neurons send signals using action potentials, which are quick changes in voltage across the neuron's surface.
    • The action potential starts around -55 mV and peaks at about +30 mV.
  5. Neural Networks:

    • The human brain has around 86 billion neurons. These form complex networks that control all the body’s functions and responses.

These special features help neurons work together to send messages in the body, allowing us to react quickly to what we experience.

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What Makes Neurons Unique in Transmitting Signals Across the Body?

Neurons are special cells that help send signals all over the body. They have unique features that allow them to communicate quickly.

  1. Structure:

    • Neurons have three main parts: dendrites, a cell body, and an axon.
    • The axon can be as long as 1 meter in some cases. This helps signals travel long distances.
  2. Myelination:

    • Many neurons have a protective cover called the myelin sheath. This helps signals move faster.
    • Neurons with myelin can send messages at speeds up to 120 meters per second!
  3. Synaptic Transmission:

    • Neurons communicate at places called synapses, where they release chemicals called neurotransmitters.
    • There are more than 100 different neurotransmitters, like dopamine and serotonin.
  4. Action Potentials:

    • Neurons send signals using action potentials, which are quick changes in voltage across the neuron's surface.
    • The action potential starts around -55 mV and peaks at about +30 mV.
  5. Neural Networks:

    • The human brain has around 86 billion neurons. These form complex networks that control all the body’s functions and responses.

These special features help neurons work together to send messages in the body, allowing us to react quickly to what we experience.

Related articles