Which component of a nerve cell receives information from other nerve cells?

Dendrites are the components of a nerve cell that are specifically designed to receive information from other nerve cells. They extend out from the cell body and have numerous branch-like structures, which allow them to make connections with the axons of other neurons. This morphology facilitates the reception of neurotransmitters, the chemical signals that transmit information between neurons.

In contrast, the axon is responsible for transmitting impulses away from the cell body toward other neurons or muscles, while terminal buttons are located at the ends of axons and release neurotransmitters into the synapse. The myelin sheath serves as an insulating layer around the axon, improving the speed and efficiency of signal transmission but does not play a direct role in receiving information. Understanding these functions clarifies why dendrites are critical for the neuron's role in processing incoming stimuli and communication within the nervous system.