Which part of the neuron is primarily responsible for receiving signals?

The primary responsibility for receiving signals in a neuron lies with the dendrites. Dendrites are tree-like structures that extend from the neuron’s cell body (soma) and are specialized to detect and receive neurotransmitters released by other neurons. This process is crucial for neuronal communication, as dendrites convert chemical signals into electrical signals, which then travel through the neuron.

The axon, on the other hand, primarily functions to transmit these electrical signals away from the soma to other neurons, muscles, or glands. The soma itself serves as the cell's main body and is where the nucleus is located, managing the cell's metabolic activities and integration of incoming signals. The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that insulates the axon, facilitating faster transmission of action potentials but does not play a role in signal reception. Understanding the distinct functions of these parts is essential for grasping how neurons communicate within the nervous system.