Which part of the neuron receives signals from other neurons?

Prepare for the EPPP Biological Bases of Behavior Exam with targeted questions and explanations. Enhance your understanding of neuropsychology, pharmacology, and psychophysiology. Dive into the practice quizzes to ace your exam!

The part of the neuron that receives signals from other neurons is the dendrite. Dendrites are branching extensions of the neuron that increase its surface area and allow for greater interaction with other neurons. They contain receptor sites that bind to neurotransmitters released from neighboring neurons at synapses. This binding initiates electrical signals within the receiving neuron.

In contrast, the axon is the long, slender projection that transmits electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. The synapse is not a structure of a single neuron; instead, it refers to the gap between neurons where communication occurs through neurotransmission. The cortex, specifically the cerebral cortex, is a layer of neural tissue covering the brain's surface and is involved in various higher-order functions, but it is not a part of a single neuron. Therefore, dendrites play a crucial role in receiving and integrating signals from other neurons, which is essential for neural communication and processing.

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