What is the basic building block of the nervous system known as?

The basic building block of the nervous system is known as a neuron. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information throughout the nervous system via electrical and chemical signals. Each neuron consists of three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. Dendrites receive incoming signals from other neurons, while the axon sends the neural impulse away from the cell body towards other neurons or muscles. The unique structure of neurons enables them to carry out their primary function of communication within the body, which is essential for processing information, controlling movements, and regulating bodily functions. This makes neurons the fundamental units of the nervous system, distinguishing them from other components such as axons, dendrites, and synapses, which are structures or parts involved in the functioning and connectivity of neurons.