Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam 2025 – The Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

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What is the key characteristic of a monosynaptic reflex arc?

Involves multiple synapses

Direct connection between sensory and motor neurons

A monosynaptic reflex arc is characterized by a direct connection between sensory and motor neurons, making it the fastest type of reflex. In this type of reflex, when a sensory neuron detects a stimulus, it sends an immediate signal directly to a motor neuron, which then elicits a response in a muscle or gland without the involvement of interneurons or additional synapses.

This direct pathway allows for a quick response to stimuli, such as the knee-jerk reflex, where tapping the patellar tendon stretches the quadriceps muscle and causes an immediate contraction through the connected sensory and motor neurons. The simplicity of this pathway is a defining feature of monosynaptic reflexes, distinguishing them from other reflexes that involve more complex pathways with multiple synapses and interneurons.

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Requires brain input for response

Involves interneurons as mediators

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