National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which term refers to the building blocks of the nervous system that receive information?

1. Neuron

2. Metabolites

3. Dendrite

4. Axon

The correct answer is: Neuron

The term that refers to the building blocks of the nervous system that receive information is "neuron." Neurons are specialized cells that transmit nerve impulses and are fundamental to the functioning of the nervous system. Each neuron has distinct components, including dendrites, which are primarily responsible for receiving signals from other neurons or sensory receptors. While the correct answer is neuron, it’s important to note that dendrites, although they receive information, are a part of the neuron itself and not the entire building block. Metabolites are substances formed during metabolism and are not directly involved in receiving information within the nervous system. Axons are the extensions of neurons that transmit signals away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles, which also does not align with the focus on receiving information. Thus, the most accurate term to describe the fundamental cell type that encompasses the structure involved in receiving information is neuron.