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Multiple Choice
Conduction of a nerve impulse would be the fastest in which of the following?
A
An unmyelinated axon with a small diameter
B
A myelinated axon with a small diameter
C
An unmyelinated axon with a large diameter
D
A myelinated axon with a large diameter
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that nerve impulse conduction speed is influenced by two main factors: myelination and axon diameter.
Recognize that myelination significantly increases conduction speed by allowing the impulse to jump between nodes of Ranvier in a process called saltatory conduction.
Acknowledge that a larger axon diameter reduces internal resistance to the flow of ions, further increasing conduction speed.
Compare the options: an unmyelinated axon with a small diameter, a myelinated axon with a small diameter, an unmyelinated axon with a large diameter, and a myelinated axon with a large diameter.
Conclude that the fastest conduction occurs in a myelinated axon with a large diameter, as it benefits from both saltatory conduction and reduced internal resistance.