The Nerve Cell

• The basic unit of the nervous system is called the nerve cell
• Nerve cells are called neurons
• A neuron has a cell body containing the nucleus. In the cell body there are root-like structures called the dendrites and axons.
• The gap between neurons is called synapse.
• axons carry impulses away from the cell body.
• Dendrites carry impulses toward the cell body
• Neurons are the fundamental building blocks of the nervous system and play a crucial role in transmitting information throughout the body
• 3 TYPES OF NEURONS

  1. Sensory Neurons
  2. Motor Neurons
  3. Interneurons
• Sensory neurons - transmit signals from sensory receptors (such as in the skin, eyes, ears, and taste buds) to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
• Motor neurons - carry signals from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, triggering muscle contractions and glandular secretions.
• Sensory neurons - These neurons detect external stimuli and internal conditions, allowing us to perceive the environment around us.
• Interneurons - also known as association neurons, are found within the central nervous system and act as connectors between sensory and motor neurons.
• Motor neurons - These neurons are responsible for controlling voluntary movements and involuntary functions, such as heart rate and digestion.