26.5k views
5 votes
The nervous system includes the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. All of these parts are made up of cells. Which of the following is true about the cells in the nervous system?

a. Cells in the brain and spinal cord have different, specialized structures and functions.
b. Each cell in the brain and spinal cord is a unique type of cell.
c. Cells in the brain and spinal cord have the same structure but different functions.
d. Cells in the nervous system are not specialized.

User Marek W
by
8.1k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

Cells in the nervous system, specifically in the brain and spinal cord, have different, specialized structures and functions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cells within the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, are highly specialized in their structure and function. Option a. is correct: Cells in the brain and spinal cord have different, specialized structures and functions. There are two basic types of cells in the nervous system: neurons and glial cells. Neurons are the primary cells responsible for transmitting electrical signals, thereby enabling communication throughout the nervous system. Glial cells, on the other hand, provide vital support to neurons, such as supplying them with nutrients and maintaining homeostasis within the nervous tissue.

Within the neurons, there are functional parts including dendrites that receive signals, axons that send signals, and the cell body that contains the nucleus. The axons of many neurons are insulated with a myelin sheath, produced by certain types of glial cells, which helps in the rapid transmission of nerve impulses. The nervous system is an intricate network of specialized cells, each with unique structures like dendrites, axons, and the myelin sheath, which are tailored to their specific roles within the system.

User Tom Redfern
by
9.0k points