What is the role of ion channels in a neuron?

• A. To allow vital nutrients in and out of the cell.
• B. To allow for the movement of ions in and out of the cell.
• C. To create an equal distribution of sodium and potassium on each side of the cell membrane.
• D. To protect the neuron from invading pathogens.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that neurons are specialized cells in the nervous system responsible for transmitting information throughout the body.
2. Recognize that ion channels are protein structures embedded in the cell membrane of neurons, which play a crucial role in the neuron's ability to transmit signals.
3. Ion channels allow specific ions, such as sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), and chloride (Cl-), to move in and out of the neuron, which is essential for generating electrical signals known as action potentials.
4. The movement of ions through these channels is critical for maintaining the neuron's resting membrane potential and for the depolarization and repolarization phases of the action potential.
5. Ion channels do not directly allow nutrients in and out of the cell, nor do they create an equal distribution of sodium and potassium; instead, they facilitate the selective movement of ions, which is vital for neuronal communication.