Types of Neurons Based on Function

Based on the direction in which they carry impulses, neurons are classified into three functional types:

Afferent neuron: carries impulses from a sense organ towards the central nervous system (CNS). Because it relays sensory information, it is also called a sensory neuron. It is found in the dorsal root of the spinal cord.

Efferent neuron: carries impulses from the CNS out to an effector organ (such as a muscle or gland). Because it triggers a response, it is also called a motor neuron. It is found in the ventral root of the spinal cord. …