Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

Previous problemNext problem

2:57 minutes

Problem 14

Textbook Question

What is the basis for the functional classification of neurons?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that neurons are classified functionally based on the direction in which they transmit impulses relative to the central nervous system (CNS). This classification helps describe their role in the nervous system.

Learn about the three main functional types of neurons: sensory (afferent) neurons, motor (efferent) neurons, and interneurons. Each type has a distinct role in processing and transmitting information.

Sensory neurons transmit impulses from sensory receptors in the body (e.g., skin, organs) toward the CNS. They are responsible for detecting stimuli such as touch, temperature, and pain.

Motor neurons carry impulses away from the CNS to effectors such as muscles or glands, enabling responses like movement or secretion.

Interneurons, found exclusively within the CNS, act as connectors or integrators between sensory and motor neurons. They play a critical role in processing information and forming reflex arcs or complex neural pathways.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Functional Classification of Neurons

The functional classification of neurons categorizes them based on their roles in the nervous system. Neurons can be classified as sensory (afferent), motor (efferent), or interneurons. Sensory neurons transmit signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system, motor neurons convey commands from the central nervous system to muscles or glands, and interneurons connect various neurons within the central nervous system.

Afferent and Efferent Pathways

Afferent pathways refer to the routes through which sensory information is sent to the central nervous system, while efferent pathways are the routes through which motor commands are sent from the central nervous system to effectors like muscles. This distinction is crucial for understanding how the nervous system processes information and coordinates responses, highlighting the flow of information in the body.

Interneurons

Interneurons are a type of neuron that serves as a connector or relay between sensory and motor neurons within the central nervous system. They play a critical role in processing information, reflexes, and complex behaviors by integrating signals from multiple sources. Interneurons are essential for higher cognitive functions and the coordination of motor activities.

Watch next

Master The Central Nervous System with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning

Related Videos

Related Practice

Textbook Question

Match the names of the supporting cells found in column B with the appropriate descriptions in column A.

Column A

_______ (1) myelinates nerve fibers in the CNS

_______ (2) lines brain cavities

_______ (3) myelinates nerve fibers in the PNS

_______ (4) CNS phagocyte

________(5) helps regulate the ionic composition of CNS extracellular fluid

Column B

a. Astrocyte

b. Ependymal cell

c. Microglial cell

d. Oligodendrocyte

e. Satellite cell

f. Schwann cell

415

views

Textbook Question

a. Contrast unipolar, bipolar, and multipolar neurons structurally.

b. Indicate where each is most likely to be found.

568

views

Textbook Question

Histological examination of a slice of neural tissue reveals a bundle of nerve fibers held together by cells whose multiple processes wrap around several fibers and form a myelin sheath. The specimen is likely to be:

a. A nucleus

b. A ganglion

c. A nerve

d. A tract

422

views

Textbook Question

Neuroglia present in large numbers in areas of bacterial infection in the brain are most likely:

a. Oligodendrocytes

b. Astrocytes

c. Ependymal cells

d. Microglia