Which part of the neuron receives incoming signals?

The correct answer is the dendrites, which are specialized structures of a neuron responsible for receiving incoming signals from other neurons. Dendrites are tree-like extensions that increase the surface area of a neuron, allowing it to form connections, or synapses, with many other neurons. They contain receptor sites that bind to neurotransmitters released by neighboring neurons, facilitating communication between the cells.

In the context of the function of a neuron, the dendrites play a crucial role in collecting and processing information, transmitting signals toward the cell body for further integration. This signal transmission is essential for the overall functioning of the nervous system, allowing for complex processing and responses to stimuli.

The other structures mentioned have different roles. The axon primarily transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscle cells. The cell body contains the nucleus and organelles necessary for the neuron's metabolic activities, whereas the synapse is the junction where neurotransmitters are released to communicate between neurons but does not itself receive signals. Understanding the distinct roles of these components highlights the dendrites' fundamental function in the signaling processes of the nervous system.