What term is used to describe nerve cells?

The term used to describe nerve cells is "neurons." Neurons are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the body via electrical and chemical signals. They play a critical role in the nervous system, enabling communication between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.

Neurons consist of several key components, including the cell body, dendrites, and axon, which work together to send and receive messages. The dendrites receive signals from other neurons, while the long axon transmits these signals to different neurons or muscles.

In contrast, glial cells serve a supportive role in the nervous system, providing protection and maintenance for neurons but are not involved in signal transmission. The term "neutrons" is often confused with neurons but refers to subatomic particles and is not related to nerve cells. Axons are a structure within neurons but not a term used to represent the cells themselves. Thus, the correct understanding of nerve cells as neurons highlights their fundamental role in the nervous system's function.