How Do You Spell DENDRITES?

Pronunciation: [dˈɛndɹa͡ɪts] (IPA)

Dendrites are the branched extensions of a neuron that receive information from other neurons. The spelling of this word is "dɛnˈdraɪts", which is pronounced as "den-drahyts". The first syllable "den" is pronounced like the word "den", while the second syllable "drahyts" is pronounced with a long "i" sound and a soft "s" sound at the end. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to accurately represent the sound of each syllable and ensure proper pronunciation of the word.

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DENDRITES Meaning and Definition

  1. Dendrites are specialized projections that extend from the cell body of neurons, also known as nerve cells. They are one of the two main types of branching structures found in neurons, with the other being the axon. Dendrites receive incoming electrical signals and information from other neurons or sensory receptors, and play a crucial role in the process of transmitting signals within the nervous system.

    The morphology of dendrites is highly complex and varied, featuring numerous branching points and extensions. These tree-like structures allow dendrites to receive input from multiple sources simultaneously, enabling the integration of signals from different neurons. The electrical signals received by dendrites are transformed into biochemical signals, which then propagate towards the cell body and eventually initiate an electrical impulse known as an action potential.

    Dendrites possess specialized structures called dendritic spines, which further increase their surface area and provide additional sites for receiving synaptic input. The shape, size, and distribution of dendritic spines can change in response to synaptic activity and modulate the strength of connections between neurons, influencing synaptic plasticity and learning.

    Overall, dendrites are crucial components of the central and peripheral nervous systems, as they enable the transmission and integration of signals throughout the neural network. Their intricate structures and functions are fundamental to the proper functioning of the brain, allowing for the complex processing and interpretation of information.

Common Misspellings for DENDRITES

Etymology of DENDRITES

The word "dendrite" is derived from the Greek word "dendron", which means "tree". In neuroscience, dendrites refer to the branch-like structures that extend from the cell body of a neuron, resembling the branches of a tree. Based on their appearance, the Greek word "dendron" was chosen to describe these neuronal extensions, and it was later anglicized as "dendrite" in the English language.

Similar spelling words for DENDRITES

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