Question

The ventral horn of gray matter contains motor neurons. What is the function of these motor neurons?

1) To transmit sensory information to the brain
2) To control voluntary muscle movements
3) To regulate body temperature
4) To produce hormones

Answer 1

Motor neurons in the ventral horn of gray matter control voluntary muscle movements by extending axons to skeletal muscles, thereby initiating contractions that enable movement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The motor neurons in the ventral horn of gray matter are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. These neurons, also known as lower motor neurons, have their cell bodies in the ventral horn and extend long axons through the ventral root to join with spinal nerves, which then project to skeletal muscles throughout the body. The proper functioning of these motor neurons is essential for initiating muscle contractions and enabling movement.

The correct answer to the function of motor neurons in the ventral horn of gray matter is to control voluntary muscle movements (option 2). They do not transmit sensory information to the brain, regulate body temperature, or produce hormones.