Question

Which one of the following statements is FALSE regarding the myelin sheath?

a. It slows down propagation of nerve impulses along an axon.
b. It allows saltatory conduction whereby action potentials are generated only at the nodes of Ranvier.
c. It deteriorates in multiple sclerosis.
d. It is composed of layers of lipid-containing membranes.
e. It is produced by glial support cells.

Answer 1

a. It slows down propagation of nerve impulses along an axon. The myelin sheath actually increases the speed of propagation by acting as an insulator.

Step-by-step explanation:

The false statement regarding the myelin sheath is option a. It slows down propagation of nerve impulses along an axon.

The myelin sheath actually increases the speed of propagation by acting as an insulator, preventing current from leaving the axon. This allows for faster conduction of action potentials.