You Can Get Smarter!

The dendrite is a specialized part of a neuron that receives messages from other neurons or sensory receptors. It acts as the input zone of the neuron, collecting and integrating incoming signals. Once the dendrite receives these messages, it transmits them to the cell body of the neuron for further processing and potential transmission of an outgoing message through the axon. Therefore, the role of the dendrite is to receive messages, making the given answer correct.

The part of the neuron labelled "D" is a dendrite. Dendrites are the branch-like structures that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body. They play a crucial role in the communication between neurons and are responsible for integrating and processing incoming information.

The axon is responsible for transmitting electrical signals, known as action potentials, away from the cell body of a neuron. These messages are sent to other neurons, muscles, or glands in the body. The axon is specialized for rapid and efficient conduction of these signals, as it is long and covered in a fatty substance called myelin. Therefore, the correct answer is "to send messages."

The part of the neuron labelled "B" is an axon. An axon is a long, slender projection of a neuron that carries electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. It is responsible for transmitting information from the cell body to other parts of the nervous system.

The part of the neuron labelled "C" is the cell body. The cell body, also known as the soma, is the main part of the neuron that contains the nucleus and other organelles. It is responsible for maintaining the overall functioning of the neuron and integrating incoming signals from dendrites. The cell body also plays a role in protein synthesis and energy production to support the neuron's activities.

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that go between nerve cells. They are responsible for transmitting signals from one nerve cell to another, allowing for communication within the nervous system. These chemicals are released from the axon of one nerve cell and bind to receptors on the dendrites of another nerve cell, triggering a response. Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in various physiological processes such as movement, cognition, and emotions.

The myelin sheath is a protective covering that surrounds the axon of a neuron. It is made up of fatty substances and acts as an insulator, allowing for faster transmission of electrical signals along the axon. Option A, axon, is incorrect as the axon is the long fiber that extends from the cell body and transmits signals away from the neuron. Option B, dendrite, is incorrect as dendrites receive signals from other neurons. Option D, the cell body, is incorrect as it contains the nucleus and other organelles but does not form the myelin sheath.

When we learn something new, new dendrites (branch-like extensions of neurons) sprout. This allows the neurons to form new connections and create new pathways for information to flow through the brain. This process is known as synaptic plasticity and is essential for the formation of new memories and the acquisition of new skills. The other options mentioned in the question, such as synapses becoming closer together or the cell body becoming wider, do not accurately describe the process of new learning.

A synapse is a gap between two neurons where information is transmitted from one neuron to another. It is a specialized junction that allows for communication between neurons through the release and reception of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.