Final answer:
The trigger zone, also known as the axon hillock, is the site in a neuron where action potentials are initiated. It determines whether an action potential will be generated and transmitted along the axon.
Step-by-step explanation:
The trigger zone, also known as the axon hillock, is an important part of a neuron where action potentials are initiated. It is located at the base of the cell body, where the axon originates. When a neuron receives enough input from other neurons through its dendrites, the trigger zone determines whether an action potential will be generated and transmitted along the axon.
For example, let's say you touch a hot stove with your hand. The sensory neurons in your skin will send signals to other neurons in your hand and then to the trigger zones of those neurons. If the combined signals from these neurons reach the threshold level at the trigger zone, an action potential will be generated and travel along the axon towards the brain, allowing you to quickly withdraw your hand.
The trigger zone is a critical site for controlling the transmission of neural signals and plays a crucial role in the overall function of the nervous system.
Final answer:
The trigger zone, also known as the axon hillock, is the site in a neuron where action potentials are initiated. It determines whether an action potential will be generated and transmitted along the axon.
Step-by-step explanation:
The trigger zone, also known as the axon hillock, is an important part of a neuron where action potentials are initiated. It is located at the base of the cell body, where the axon originates. When a neuron receives enough input from other neurons through its dendrites, the trigger zone determines whether an action potential will be generated and transmitted along the axon.
For example, let's say you touch a hot stove with your hand. The sensory neurons in your skin will send signals to other neurons in your hand and then to the trigger zones of those neurons. If the combined signals from these neurons reach the threshold level at the trigger zone, an action potential will be generated and travel along the axon towards the brain, allowing you to quickly withdraw your hand.
The trigger zone is a critical site for controlling the transmission of neural signals and plays a crucial role in the overall function of the nervous system.