Structure of a Neuron
processes of neuron
extensions of the neuron cell body
trigger area
first part of the axon where the action potential begins
axon
longer process than dendrite, extends from the axon hillock. (changes in membrane potential travel to the axon hillock where they are integrated to determine whether an action potential will be initiated in the axon)
neurons
longest cells in the body (can be over 3ft long) 3 basic parts: dendrites, cell body, and an axon.
axon terminals
neurotransmitter molecules are released from axon terminals and transmit signals across a synapse to other neurons or to effectors such as muscles or glands.
dendrites
receive information from receptors or other neurons and sent it as a change in membrane potential to the neuron cell body.
axon collaterals
side branches of axon
cell body
soma, have most of the organelles that are present in other types of cells.
axon hillock
triangular or cone-shaped area of the cell body