Question

A neuronal circuit that concentrates or directs a large number of incoming impulses to a rather small number of neurons is called a(n) ________.

1) diverging circuit
2) oscillating circuit
3) converging circuit
4) parallel circuit

Answer 1

A converging circuit is a type of neural circuit where many inputs from various neurons are directed towards a single neuron, exemplified by the extensive contacts received by a Purkinje cell's dendrites in the cerebellum.

Step-by-step explanation:

The neuronal circuit that concentrates or directs a large number of incoming impulses to a rather small number of neurons is called a converging circuit. This type of circuit is characterized by the way inputs from many different neurons can affect a single neuron. For example, dendrites from a Purkinje cell in the cerebellum are thought to receive contact from as many as 200,000 other neurons. This is a powerful demonstration of how a converging circuit functions by summing multiple synaptic inputs into a singular output. The neuron can then process this accumulation of signals and, if a certain threshold is reached, it will trigger an action potential to be sent down its axon, which can initiate further responses.