In terms of nerve cell communication, axons carry messages which way?

Prepare for the Penn Foster Veterinary Pharmacology Exam. Get ready for your exam with interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations to help you succeed!

Axons are crucial components of nerve cells (neurons) that facilitate the transmission of electrical impulses known as action potentials. These impulses carry signals away from the neuron’s cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. This directional flow is fundamental for effective communication within the nervous system.

When a neuron is activated, it generates an electrical signal that travels down the axon, which branches out and forms synapses with target cells. This propagation is vital for conveying information, such as reflex actions or sensory input, to various parts of the body. The structure of the neuron, with its axon extending away from the cell body, is specifically designed to allow this process to occur efficiently.

Understanding this function of axons is key to grasping how the nervous system operates as a whole. While other choices may refer to different aspects of neuron function or the general pathways of signals in the body, they do not accurately describe the primary role of axons in carrying messages away from the nerve cell itself.

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