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Axon of a Neuron

Definition

The axon is the long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body.

Analogy

Think of the axon as a highway. Cars (electrical impulses) travel along it to get from one city (the cell body) to another (the end of the neuron).

Related terms

Dendrites: These are like local roads that bring traffic to the highway. They receive information from other neurons and transmit it towards the cell body.

Myelin Sheath: This is like an express lane on our highway. It wraps around parts of the axon, allowing electrical impulses to move more quickly.

Axon Terminal: This is like the exit ramp at the end of our highway. It's where signals leave one neuron and move towards another.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.