OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What type of neuron is responsible for carrying impulses to effectors?

1. Motor neuron

2. Relay neuron

3. Sensory neuron

4. Interneuron

The correct answer is: Motor neuron

The type of neuron responsible for carrying impulses to effectors is a motor neuron. Motor neurons transmit signals from the central nervous system (CNS) to various effectors, which include muscles and glands. This transmission allows the body to respond to stimuli through actions such as muscle contractions or glandular secretions. Motor neurons play a crucial role in the voluntary control of muscles, allowing for coordinated movements. They receive impulses from the CNS, where processing occurs, and relay them to the appropriate muscles or glands, enabling the body to execute movements or physiological responses. Relay neurons, primarily found within the CNS, facilitate communication between sensory neurons and motor neurons but do not carry impulses to effectors themselves. Sensory neurons, on the other hand, are responsible for transmitting impulses from sensory receptors to the CNS, where information is processed. Interneurons serve as connectors or processors within the CNS, facilitating communication between other types of neurons but not directly involved in carrying impulses to effectors.