Which part of the neuron is responsible for integrating incoming signals and 'deciding' whether or not to initiate an action potential?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Axon hillock
The axon hillock acts as the trigger zone of the neuron. It has a high density of voltage-gated sodium channels and sums up excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials to determine if the threshold is met.
Practice all 20 Nervous System: Neuron, Synapse, Reflexes questions
Keep practicing
More Nervous System: Neuron, Synapse, Reflexes questions
- During the depolarization phase of an action potential, which of the following events occurs?
- What is the primary function of the myelin sheath in the nervous system?
- At a chemical synapse, what triggers the fusion of neurotransmitter-filled vesicles with the presynaptic membrane?
- Which of the following describes an Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential (IPSP)?
- In a simple monosynaptic reflex arc, such as the knee-jerk reflex, how many synapses are involved in the spinal cord?
- What is the 'Absolute Refractory Period' of a neuron?