Question

Excitatory and inhibitory signals are received by the _____ of a neuron. An excitatory signal _______ the chances that the neuron will fire.

a) Axon; increases
b) Dendrites; increases
c) Cell body (soma); decreases
d) Myelin sheath; decreases

Answer 1

The correct answer is b) Dendrites; increases. Dendrites receive signals that can depolarize the neuron, potentially leading to an action potential if the threshold is reached.

Step-by-step explanation:

Excitatory and inhibitory signals are received by the dendrites of a neuron. An excitatory signal increases the chances that the neuron will fire. Thus, the correct answer is b) Dendrites; increases.

When neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the dendrites, they can cause depolarization of the membrane. If the depolarization reaches a certain threshold, an action potential is triggered. These signals are integrated at the axon hillock and, if strong enough, result in an action potential that travels down the axon.