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Multiple Choice
Which part of the neuron is primarily responsible for generating and conducting action potentials?
A
Dendrite
B
Nucleus
C
Axon
D
Cell body (soma)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the structure of a neuron. A neuron consists of several parts: dendrites, cell body (soma), axon, and axon terminals. Each part has a specific function in transmitting signals.
Step 2: Learn the role of dendrites. Dendrites are responsible for receiving signals from other neurons or sensory stimuli and transmitting them to the cell body. They do not generate or conduct action potentials.
Step 3: Examine the function of the cell body (soma). The soma contains the nucleus and organelles, and it integrates incoming signals from the dendrites. While it plays a role in processing signals, it does not primarily generate or conduct action potentials.
Step 4: Focus on the axon. The axon is the elongated part of the neuron that is specialized for generating and conducting action potentials. Action potentials are initiated at the axon hillock (the junction between the soma and axon) and travel down the axon to the axon terminals.
Step 5: Confirm the correct answer. Based on the functions of each part of the neuron, the axon is primarily responsible for generating and conducting action potentials.