Return to MCAT® Blog
Homepage
MCAT Biology Question — Synapses
- by
- Jan 13, 2017
- MCAT Question of the Day
- Reviewed By: Liz Flagge
In order to send pain signals to the brain, a nerve in the spinal cord would have to synapse with an:
A. afferent dorsal motor neuron
B. efferent ventral sensory neuron
C. afferent dorsal sensory neuron
D. efferent ventral motor neuron
Click for Explanation
Sensory neurons are afferent (from periphery to central) and enter dorsally within the spinal cord. Motor neurons are efferent (from central to periphery) and leave the spinal cord ventrally. An interneuron carrying pain sensation to the brain would synapse with an afferent, dorsal sensory neuron.
A. afferent dorsal motor neuron, incorrect, Motor neurons are efferent and ventral.
B. efferent ventral sensory neuron, incorrect, Sensory neurons are afferent and dorsal.
C. afferent dorsal sensory neuron, correct.
D. efferent ventral motor neuron, incorrect, Motor neurons are efferent and ventral, but an interneuron would synapse with the afferent sensory nerve in order to carry the incoming signal to the brain.
Want more MCAT practice?
We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!
From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!
Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.
Related Posts
Search the Blog
Free Consultation
Interested in our Online MCAT Course, One-on-One MCAT Tutoring or Med admissions packages? Set up a free consultation with one of our experienced Senior Student Advisors.
Schedule NowPopular Posts
-
-
MCAT Blog What's on the MCAT? -
-
-
MCAT Blog How to Review MCAT Full Lengths
Free MCAT Practice Account
Need great MCAT practice?Get the most representative MCAT practice possible when you sign up for our free MCAT Account, which includes a half-length diagnostic exam and one of our full-length MCAT practice exams.
Learn More