Question

Differentiate between Myelinated and Non Myelinated axons.

Answer 1

Hint: Neurons are specialised cells that, through fragile and thin cellular extensions called axons, receive and send signals to other cells.

Complete Answer:
Neurons are electrically excitable cells in our body that interact through specific links called synapses with other cells. Each neuron has a cell body called dendrites with several minute branched short protoplasmic extensions and long elongated unbranched protoplasmic extensions called axons. The axons may be myelinated (with sheath) and unmyelinated (without sheath).

Sl.NO	MYELINATED AXON	NON MYELINATED AXON
1.	They contain myelin sheath.	They do not have myelin sheath.
2.	The Schwann cell wraps tightly around the nerve axon and forms myelin sheath.	The schwann cells simply form a groove but are not wrapped around the axon.
3.	There are two sheaths in the axis cylinder.	There is only one sheath in the axis cylinder.
4.	The transfer speed of nerve impulses are faster.	The transfer speed of nerve impulses are much slower.
5.	In a fresh state it appears white.	In a fresh state it is grey.
6.	They show nodes and internodes.	They do not show nodes and internodes.
7.	Nodes of Raniver are present.	Nodes of Raniver are absent.
8.	Collateral fibres are produced.	Collateral fibres are not produced.
9.	They are found in white part of the brain , spinal cord and central and cranial nervous system.	They are found in the Autonomic nervous system.
10.	Axons are of larger diameter.	Axons are of smaller diameter.
11.	Saltatory conduction is present.	Saltatory conduction is absent.
12.	Exchange of ions takes place within the nodes.	Exchange of ions takes place all over the surface.

Note: Both these are called nerve cells and they conduct the impulses in the form of electrical signals.