Question

Neurons can be classified into three main types: sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons. The relationship between structure and function is a fundamental aspect of physiology, and neurons adhere to this principle. Please evaluate the following statements as either true or false regarding the characteristics of these three neuron types.

Sensory neurons transmit signals away from the CNS and elicit some form of response. ______

Answer 1

The statement provided is false. Sensory neurons actually transmit signals toward the CNS, not away from it, to allow the body to process sensory information. Motor neurons then transmit signals away from the CNS to elicit responses, and interneurons relay signals within the CNS.

Step-by-step explanation:

Characteristics of Neuron Types

The statement “Sensory neurons transmit signals away from the CNS and elicit some form of response” is actually false. Sensory neurons transmit signals toward the Central Nervous System (CNS), not away from it. Sensory neurons are responsible for carrying impulses from the body’s sensory receptors, like those in the skin, muscles, and organs, to the spinal cord and brain. This allows the body to process and interpret sensory information.

Motor neurons, on the other hand, transmit signals away from the CNS to muscles and glands, eliciting a response such as muscle contraction or gland secretion. Lastly, interneurons act as connectors, relaying signals between sensory and motor neurons within the CNS. The functionality of each neuron type correlates intimately with its structure; sensory neurons have receptors that can pick up stimuli, motor neurons have extensive networks to reach the distant muscles and glands, and interneurons are often centrally located to facilitate quick signal transmission within the CNS.

Thus, the correct function of sensory neurons is to relay information from the body back to the CNS, where it can be processed.