What are the short, multi-branched extensions on neurons called?

What are the short, multi-branched extensions on neurons called?

• A. Axons
• B. Cell bodies
• C. Dendrites
• D. Neurotransmitters

Answer: (C)

Dendrites are the short, tree-like extensions that receive signals from other neurons. Their branched structure increases surface area, allowing them to collect inputs from many different synapses and funnel those signals toward the cell body for processing. This input-focused role distinguishes them from other neuronal parts: axons are typically long projections that carry signals away from the cell body, the cell body (soma) integrates inputs, and neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers released at synapses. So the description of short, multi-branched extensions that gather incoming information points to dendrites.

Dendrites are the short, tree-like extensions that receive signals from other neurons. Their branched structure increases surface area, allowing them to collect inputs from many different synapses and funnel those signals toward the cell body for processing. This input-focused role distinguishes them from other neuronal parts: axons are typically long projections that carry signals away from the cell body, the cell body (soma) integrates inputs, and neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers released at synapses. So the description of short, multi-branched extensions that gather incoming information points to dendrites.