Question

Distinguish between:
Afferent neurons and efferent neurons

Answer 1

Afferent and efferent are not different types of neurons, they are terms for pathways that connect a neuron or brain area with other brain areas. Afferent neuron conducts nerve impulses toward the brain or the spinal cord whereas efferent neuron conducts nerve impulses from the brain or spinal cord to the effector organs such as muscles or glands. Afferent neurons make up sensory nerves while efferent neurons make up motor nerves. Afferent neurons have a single long dendrite and a short axon whereas efferent neurons have a single long axon and several dendrite.