The correct answer is b axonal end. In a neuron, the conversion of an electrical signal to a chemical signal occurs at the axonal end, specifically at the synapse.
Explanation:
Electrical Signal to Chemical Signal:
When an electrical impulse (action potential) travels down the axon of a neuron, it reaches the axon terminal or synaptic knob.
Neurotransmitter Release:
At this point, the electrical signal triggers the release of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters from the axon terminal.
Synapse:
These neurotransmitters are released into a small gap called the synapse between the axon terminal of one neuron and the dendrites of the next neuron.
Chemical Signal to Electrical Signal:
The neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the dendrites of the next neuron, which converts the chemical signal back into an electrical signal, continuing the process of signal transmission.
Why other options are incorrect:
a cell body:
The cell body (or soma) is where the nucleus and other organelles of the neuron are located, but it’s not the primary site for electrical to chemical conversion.
c dendritic end:
The dendrites receive signals from other neurons, but they primarily receive chemical signals and convert them back into electrical signals, not the other way around.
d axon:
The axon is the long, thin structure that carries the electrical signal away from the cell body. While the conversion occurs along the axon, it’s the axonal end where the electrical signal is finally converted to a chemical signal.