Question

Describe the differences in impulse characteristics between large and small axon and myelinated and unmyelinated axons.

A. Large axons conduct faster impulses than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals more slowly than unmyelinated axons.
B. Large axons conduct impulses more slowly than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals faster than unmyelinated axons.
C. Large axons conduct impulses faster than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals faster than unmyelinated axons.
D. Large axons conduct impulses more slowly than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals more slowly than unmyelinated axons.

Answer 1

Large axons conduct impulses faster than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals faster than unmyelinated axons. The correct answer is: C.

Step-by-step explanation:

Large axons conduct impulses faster than small axons, and myelinated axons transmit signals faster than unmyelinated axons.

Large axons have a larger diameter, which allows for faster conduction of impulses. Small axons, on the other hand, have a smaller diameter and conduct impulses more slowly. Additionally, myelinated axons have a protective coating called myelin sheath, which increases the speed of signal transmission. Unmyelinated axons, lacking this coating, transmit signals more slowly.

Myelinated axons utilize saltatory conduction, where the electrical impulses jump between the gaps in the myelin sheath called the Nodes of Ranvier, significantly increasing the speed of impulse transmission compared to unmyelinated axons. The correct answer is: C.