What is the myelin sheath primarily associated with?

Study for the New CED - Biological Basis of Behavior Exam. Test your understanding with detailed questions and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

The myelin sheath is primarily associated with enhancing electrical impulses. This specialized layer of fatty substances surrounds the axons of many neurons and serves to insulate them. The primary function of myelin is to increase the speed at which electrical signals, or action potentials, travel along the axon. This is achieved through a process known as saltatory conduction, where the electrical impulses jump between the gaps in the myelin sheath called nodes of Ranvier. As a result, myelinated axons can transmit signals much more rapidly compared to unmyelinated axons, which is crucial for efficient communication within the nervous system.

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