Example 1
A labelled branch receives signals near the cell body. Which region is it?
A dendrite. The axon carries output toward terminals rather than being the usual label for these receiving branches.
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Year 12 · SACE Stage 2
Neuron structure matching
Match neuronal regions and stated sensory, relay and motor models.
Method and worked examples
Dendrites receive many incoming signals; the cell body contains the nucleus and major biosynthetic machinery. The axon carries an electrical signal away from the cell-body region toward its terminals. Terminal endings release neurotransmitter at chemical synapses. Myelin is an insulating covering around some axons, interrupted by nodes, that can increase conduction speed. Dendrites and axons are not interchangeable labels.
Neuron shapes vary. In a common sensory-neuron model, the cell body lies to the side of a long conducting process. A typical motor-neuron model has many dendrites around a cell body and a long axon to an effector. Interneurons connect neurons within the CNS and often have extensively branching connections. Use the stated structure together with pathway direction rather than claiming every sensory or motor neuron has one identical shape.
Example 1
Example 2
A simplified neuron has its soma to the side of a long process and carries receptor signals to the CNS. Classify it.
This is the stated sensory-neuron model. The pathway direction distinguishes it from a motor neuron carrying commands to an effector.
Watch out: The cell body contains the nucleus; terminals lie at axon endings and form output connections.