Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store

Difference Between Axon and Dendrites

ffImage
hightlight icon
highlight icon
highlight icon
share icon
copy icon
SearchIcon

An Introduction to Axons and Dendrites Difference

Axons and dendrites are both extensions of neurons, but they serve different functions. Axons are long, single projections that transmit nerve impulses away from the cell body, while dendrites are short, branched structures that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.


Difference Between Axon and Dendrites:

Aspect

Axon

Dendrites

Definition

A long, single projection of a neuron that transmits nerve impulses away from the cell body.

Short, branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals and transmit them toward the cell body.

Function

Carries electrical impulses to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

Receives signals from other neurons and sends them to the cell body.

Structure

Long, thin, and cylindrical; usually single per neuron.

Short, highly branched, and multiple per neuron.

Myelin Sheath

Often covered with a myelin sheath to speed up impulse transmission.

Does not have a myelin sheath.

Direction of Impulse

Transmits impulses away from the cell body.

Receives impulses and directs them toward the cell body.

Number per Neuron

Typically one axon per neuron.

Multiple dendrites per neuron.

Branching

Few branches, mainly at the terminal end (axon terminals).

Highly branched to receive multiple signals.

Neurotransmitter Release

Releases neurotransmitters at the axon terminals.

Does not release neurotransmitters, only receives them.

Role in Synapse

Forms the presynaptic part of a synapse.

Forms the postsynaptic part of a synapse.

Example Function

Transmits signals to muscles for movement.

Receives sensory signals from other neurons.



Essential Study Materials for NEET UG Success

FAQs on Difference Between Axon and Dendrites

1. Write two differences between axon and dendrites

  1. Axon transmits nerve impulses away from the cell body, while dendrites receive signals and direct them toward the cell body.

  2. Axons are usually single and long, while dendrites are multiple and short with branching structures.

2. What is axon vs dendrite function?

  • Axon: Transmits electrical impulses from the neuron to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

  • Dendrite: Receives incoming signals from other neurons and transmits them to the cell body.

3. What is the axon or dendrite of a neuron?

  • Axon: The long, fiber-like extension that carries signals away from the neuron.

  • Dendrite: The short, branched extensions that receive signals from other neurons.

4. Do axons send or receive?

Axons send nerve impulses away from the neuron to communicate with other neurons, muscles, or glands.

5. What is the job of a dendrite?

Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body for processing.

6. What is the function of the axon?

The axon carries nerve impulses away from the neuron, allowing communication between neurons, muscles, and glands.

7. Why are dendrites different from axons?

Dendrites are short, branched, and receive signals, while axons are long, single structures that transmit signals. Dendrites do not have a myelin sheath, whereas axons often do for faster impulse transmission.

8. What are the 4 types of dendritic cells?

  1. Langerhans cells (found in the skin).

  2. Interstitial dendritic cells (found in non-lymphoid tissues).

  3. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (arise from monocytes).

  4. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (involved in immune responses).

9. What is called dendritic?

"Dendritic" refers to branching structures similar to tree-like formations, commonly seen in neurons (dendrites) or immune cells (dendritic cells).

10. What do axons and dendrites do?

  • Axons transmit electrical signals away from the neuron to other cells.

  • Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and direct them toward the cell body.