The axon hillock is a specialized part of the cell body (soma) of a neuron that connects to the axon, where it plays a crucial role in initiating nerve signals. It acts as the decision point for generating action potentials, determining whether or not the neuron will fire.
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Neuron: A neuron is a nerve cell that transmits electrical and chemical signals throughout the nervous system.
Action Potential: An action potential is a rapid rise and fall in membrane voltage that constitutes a signal transmitted along neurons.
Synapse: A synapse is a junction between two neurons or between a neuron and muscle cell where neurotransmitters are released to transmit nerve impulses.