Which term describes a neuron that serves as a relay between sensory and motor pathways?

Study for the Leaving Certificate Biology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to enhance learning. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes a neuron that serves as a relay between sensory and motor pathways?

Explanation:
Interneurons act as relays that connect sensory input to motor output within the central nervous system. They receive signals from sensory neurons, process them, and then pass them on to motor neurons to produce a response. This setup enables quick reflexes and the integration of information in the brain and spinal cord. The other options don’t fit: a sensory neuron carries signals from receptors toward the CNS, white matter is made up of bundles of axons rather than a neuron itself, and a hormone is a chemical messenger produced by glands, not a neuron.

Interneurons act as relays that connect sensory input to motor output within the central nervous system. They receive signals from sensory neurons, process them, and then pass them on to motor neurons to produce a response. This setup enables quick reflexes and the integration of information in the brain and spinal cord. The other options don’t fit: a sensory neuron carries signals from receptors toward the CNS, white matter is made up of bundles of axons rather than a neuron itself, and a hormone is a chemical messenger produced by glands, not a neuron.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy