Neuron
A neuron is a nerve cell that carries messages in the body in the form of electrical impulses.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Neurons are the basic working units of the nervous system. They receive information from receptors, carry it to the brain or spinal cord, and then take instructions to the body parts that must act. A neuron has a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Dendrites receive the message, the cell body processes it, and the axon carries it forward. This fast message system helps the body react quickly.
Example
When you touch a hot pan, sensory neurons carry the message from the skin to the spinal cord, and motor neurons carry the response back to the hand muscles.
Simple analogy
Dendrites receive, axon delivers.
Common confusion
Many students think every nerve cell does the same job. In fact, sensory neurons, relay neurons, and motor neurons have different roles.
Exam tip
When asked about a neuron, mention both structure and function. A neat label of dendrite, cell body, and axon often adds marks.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of neuron in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define neuron and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain neuron, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
Practice this concept with focused MCQs
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