What part of the neuron is responsible for carrying information away from the cell?

The axon is the part of the neuron responsible for carrying information away from the cell body. It functions as an elongated structure that transmits electrical impulses, known as action potentials, to other neurons, muscles, or glands. This transmission process is crucial for communication within the nervous system.

As the action potential travels down the axon, it ends at the terminal buttons, where neurotransmitters are released to convey messages to the adjacent neurons. The unique structure of the axon, often insulated by a myelin sheath, not only enhances the speed of transmission but also ensures that the signals reach their intended targets effectively.

In contrast, dendrites primarily receive signals from other neurons and relay that information toward the cell body, while the soma contains the nucleus and supports the cell’s metabolic functions. The terminal buttons, while integral to the communication process, do not carry signals away from the cell; instead, they release neurotransmitters to send signals to other neurons. This understanding of the axon’s role is foundational in grasping how neurons communicate and function within the broader context of the nervous system.