6.3.1.2 Motor Neurons

• How does the structure of a neuron allow for efficient signal transmission?

  • Dendrites receive signals from other neurons
  • The axon transmits electrical impulses to other neurons
  • The myelin sheath insulates the axon, increasing transmission speed
  • Nodes of Ranvier allow for saltatory conduction, further increasing speed
• What is the function of the myelin sheath in a neuron?

  The myelin sheath acts as an insulator, increasing the speed of electrical impulse transmission along the axon.
• What is the role of myelin sheaths in motor neurons?

  To ensure quick and efficient signal conduction
• What type of neuron is a bipolar neuron?

  Interneuron
• What do synaptic end bulbs do in a motor neuron?

  They release chemicals to communicate with muscles
• What type of neuron is a unipolar neuron?

  Sensory neuron
• What type of neuron is a multipolar neuron?

  Motoneuron
• What are the features of multipolar neurons?

  • Many dendrites
  • Long axon
  • Controls muscles
• What is the structure of pyramidal neurons?

  • Triangle-shaped
  • Apical dendrites
  • Involved in brain processing
• How does the oligodendrocyte contribute to the structure and function of a neuron?

  Oligodendrocytes produce the myelin sheath that insulates the axon, allowing for faster and more efficient signal transmission.
• What is the function of dendrites in a motor neuron?

  They receive signals
• How do motor neurons relate to actions like kicking a football?

  They relay signals to leg muscles for movement
• What are the main parts of a neuron?

  • Cell body (soma)
  • Dendrites
  • Axon
  • Axon hillock
  • Myelin sheath
  • Node of Ranvier
  • Synaptic end bulbs
  • Axon terminal
• What is the role of the myelin sheath in a motor neuron?

  It insulates the axon for faster conduction
• What is the primary function of motor neurons?

  To relay signals for muscle contraction
• What happens when neurotransmitters bind to muscle cell receptors?

  Muscle contractions are triggered
• What do motor neurons release at the synaptic end bulbs?

  Neurotransmitters
• What is the process of lifting weights involving motor neurons?

  • Brain sends signals via motor neurons
  • Signals reach arm muscles
  • Muscles contract to raise the weight
• What specialized features do motoneurons have for muscle control?

  Extensive dendrites and long axons
• What defines unipolar neurons?

  • Single branch
  • Cell body off to the side
  • Transmits sensory signals
• What are the main components of a motor neuron?

  1. Cell body with nucleus
  2. Dendrites for signal reception
  3. Axon for electrical signal transmission
  4. Myelin sheath and nodes of Ranvier for faster conduction
  5. Synaptic end bulbs for muscle communication
• Which of the shown basic neuron types is a pyramidal cell?

  Pyrimidal Cell
• How do motor neurons contribute to bodily functions?

  They trigger muscle contractions for movement
• What are the key roles of motor neurons in the nervous system?

  • Carry signals from the central nervous system
  • Trigger muscle contractions for movement and balance
  • Facilitate reflexes and voluntary actions
• What are the gaps in the myelin sheath called?

  Nodes of Ranvier
• What are the four basic types of neurons?

  Bipolar, unipolar, multipolar, pyramidal
• What types of actions do motor neurons facilitate?

  Reflexes and voluntary actions based on commands
• What are motor neurons?

  Nerve cells that carry signals to muscles
• What are the key structural differences between the four basic neuron types shown?

  • Bipolar: One axon and one dendrite extending from the cell body.
  • Unipolar: A single process extending from the cell body that branches into an axon and dendrite.
  • Multipolar: One axon and multiple dendrites extending from the cell body.
  • Pyramidal: Characterized by a pyramid-shaped cell body with a single axon and a prominent apical dendrite along with other basal dendrites.
• How are motoneurons distinguished from other neuron types?

  By their structure and function
• How do motor neurons facilitate movement?

  By signaling muscles to contract
• What do neurotransmitters bind to on muscle cells?

  Receptors
• What are the characteristics of bipolar neurons?

  • One dendrite
  • One axon
  • Connects neurons
• What is the first step in the function of motor neurons?

  Receiving signals from the brain and spinal cord
• What is the long fiber extending from the cell body of a motor neuron called?

  Axon
• What happens when you decide to walk?

  Motor neurons transmit signals to leg muscles
• How does the structure of the node of Ranvier contribute to the speed of signal transmission in a neuron?

  The nodes of Ranvier allow for saltatory conduction, increasing the speed of electrical impulse transmission
• What is the primary function of multipolar neurons?

  Controls muscles
• What is the name of the structure that connects the cell body to the axon?

  Axon hillock
• What distinguishes the function of pyramidal neurons from motoneurons?

  Pyramidal neurons are involved in brain processing