Which structure of a neuron is responsible for carrying impulses away from the cell body?

The axon is the structure of a neuron that is responsible for carrying impulses away from the cell body. It is a long, slender projection that conducts electrical impulses known as action potentials. When a neuron is activated, an impulse travels down the axon toward the axon terminals, where it can then transmit signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

The myelin sheath, which often surrounds the axon, acts as an insulating layer that enhances the speed of impulse conduction through a process called saltatory conduction. This efficiency in signal transmission is crucial for the rapid communication within the nervous system.

Other structures, such as dendrites, are responsible for receiving impulses from other neurons and transmitting that information toward the cell body. The soma, or cell body, contains the nucleus and is involved in the overall maintenance and functioning of the neuron. The synapse refers to the junction between two neurons, where communication occurs but does not transmit impulses away from the cell body.