velocity of conduction

the speed at which nerve impulses travel along the axon of a neuron. Measurements by various techniques show that axons vary considerably in velocity of conduction, from 80 to 120 m/s for large, myelinated A fibers to 0.5 to 2 m/s for small, unmyelinated C fibers. Conduction velocity was first measured by Hermann von Helmholtz. See also peripheral nerve fiber classification.

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Psychology term of the day

November 24th 2024

modeling theory

the idea that changes in behavior, cognition, or emotional state result from observing someone else’s behavior or the consequences of that behavior. See observational learning; social learning theory.