Multiple Choice
The speed of an action potential depends on which of the following factors?
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45. Nervous System
Neurons and Action Potentials
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Which of the following types of neurons would normally have the shortest axon?
A
Sensory neurons
B
Motor neurons
C
Projection neurons
D
Interneurons
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of each type of neuron: Sensory neurons transmit signals from sensory organs to the central nervous system (CNS), motor neurons carry signals from the CNS to muscles or glands, projection neurons connect different regions of the CNS, and interneurons facilitate communication between neurons within the CNS.
Recall that axon length is related to the function of the neuron. Sensory and motor neurons often have long axons to transmit signals over large distances, such as from the extremities to the spinal cord or brain.
Projection neurons also tend to have long axons because they connect distant regions of the CNS, such as the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord.
Interneurons, on the other hand, are specialized for local communication within the CNS. They typically connect nearby neurons and do not need long axons for their function.
Conclude that interneurons would normally have the shortest axons because their role is limited to local signal transmission within the CNS.
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