Chapter 27, Problem 1SQ

A neuron ends in many branches, each with a bulb-like _____ that contains neurotransmitters_, which can be used to communicate signals to other neurons.

1. a. synaptic terminal
2. b. dendrite
3. c. axon
4. d. cell body

Summary Introduction

Concept Introduction:

Neurons are the basic structural and functional unit of the nervous system. They are mainly characterized to respond to physical and chemical stimuli, conduct nerve impulse, and release neurotransmitter.

Answer to Problem 1SQ

Correct answer:  A neuron ends in many branches, each with a bulb-like synaptic terminal that contains a neurotransmitter, which can be used to communicate signals to other neurons. So, option a. is the correct answer.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct answer:

Option a. is given as “synaptic terminal”. Neurons receive signals by dendrites from other neurons and pass this information toward the cell body. At neuron ends, a single long fiber called as an axon transmits nerve signals toward a receiving cell. A typical neuron at the end contains thousands of branches, and each branch ends with a synaptic terminal that relays nerve signals to a receiving cell. Hence, option a. is a correct answer.

Reason for incorrect answer:

Option b. is given as “dendrite”. Dendrite is the initial branched extensions of the neuron that receives the nerve signal from other neurons. Therefore, option b. is an incorrect answer.

Option c. is given as “axon”. Axon is a single nerve fiber with different extinctions that terminate the nerve signals. Therefore, option c. is an incorrect answer.

Option d. is given as “cell body”. The neural information transmits from dendrites to the cell body, which contains nucleus and other organelles. Therefore, option d. is an incorrect answer.

Hence, options b., c., and d. are incorrect.

Conclusion

Neural ends with a bulb-like synaptic terminal contain a neurotransmitter that can be used as communicative signals to other neurons.