Final Answer:
Reducing the number of synapses in a reflex pathway decreases reaction time because fewer synaptic connections result in a more direct and rapid transmission of the nerve impulse.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a reflex pathway, such as the withdrawal reflex, reducing the number of synapses streamlines the neural transmission process. Synapses are junctions between nerve cells where signals are transmitted through the release of neurotransmitters. Each synapse introduces a slight delay in signal transmission.
By decreasing the number of synapses, the nerve impulse encounters fewer points of synaptic transmission, resulting in a more direct and faster pathway from the sensory receptor to the motor neuron. This reduction in synaptic delays significantly contributes to a quicker reaction time.
Reaction time is the interval between the presentation of a stimulus and the initiation of the response. The fewer synapses involved, the shorter the time it takes for the signal to travel through the reflex pathway. Mathematically, if we denote the time taken for each synapse as Δt, and the number of synapses as n, the total time delay introduced by synapses (ΔT) can be expressed as ΔT = n * Δt.
Therefore, by decreasing the value of 'n,' the overall time delay is minimized, resulting in a more rapid response to a stimulus. This streamlined neural pathway with fewer synapses enhances the efficiency of reflex actions, optimizing the organism's ability to respond swiftly to potential threats or changes in the environment.