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A patellar reflex is an example of: A) Monosynaptic reflex B) Two-neuron reflex C) Three-neuron reflex D) Complex neuron reflex

Ask by Jimenez Matthews. in the United States
Mar 11,2025

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The patellar reflex is a monosynaptic reflex.

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The patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex, is primarily a monosynaptic reflex. This means that it involves a direct connection between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron, with only one synapse in between. Here’s a breakdown of the options: A) **Monosynaptic reflex**: This is correct. The patellar reflex involves a single synapse between the sensory neuron that detects the stretch in the patellar tendon and the motor neuron that causes the quadriceps muscle to contract. B) **Two-neuron reflex**: This is also correct in a sense, as it involves two neurons (the sensory and motor neurons), but the term "monosynaptic" is more specific and accurate for this reflex. C) **Three-neuron reflex**: This typically refers to polysynaptic reflexes, which involve an additional interneuron. The patellar reflex does not involve interneurons. D) **Complex neuron reflex**: This is not a standard term used in neurophysiology and does not accurately describe the patellar reflex. Therefore, the best answer is: **A) Monosynaptic reflex**.

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The patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex, is primarily a monosynaptic reflex. This means it involves a direct connection between the sensory neuron, which detects the stimulus (tapping the patellar tendon), and a motor neuron, which responds by contracting the quadriceps muscle, resulting in the leg kicking out. It's a fantastic example of how our body can react swiftly without involving complex neural pathways! In real-life scenarios, medical professionals often test the patellar reflex during routine physical examinations to assess the nervous system's functionality. A strong, healthy reflex indicates that both the sensory and motor pathways are intact, while absent or diminished responses may signal neurological issues that need further investigation. It's a nifty bit of bioengineering right at work!

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