Which type of neuron relays an electrical impulse from a sensory neuron to a motor neuron?

Prepare for the IB Diploma Biology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

The type of neuron that relays an electrical impulse from a sensory neuron to a motor neuron is a relay neuron, often referred to as an interneuron. Relay neurons play a crucial role in the nervous system by connecting sensory and motor neurons, allowing for the processing and integration of sensory information before an appropriate response is generated by the motor neuron.

These neurons typically reside in the central nervous system, such as the brain and spinal cord. They receive input from sensory neurons that detect stimuli and transmit that information, and then they transfer the processed information to motor neurons, which initiate responses, such as muscle contractions or glandular stimulation.

This relay mechanism is essential for reflex actions and other complex behaviors, ensuring a coordinated and rapid response to environmental changes. In summary, relay neurons facilitate communication between different types of neurons within the nervous system, making them integral to sensory-motor pathways.

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