Which component is essential for the conduction of electrical impulses in neurons?

The myelin sheath is crucial for the conduction of electrical impulses in neurons because it acts as an insulating layer surrounding the axons of many neurons. This insulation increases the speed at which impulses, or action potentials, travel along the axon. When a neuron sends a signal, the action potential jumps between the nodes of Ranvier—small gaps in the myelin sheath—through a process called saltatory conduction. This mechanism allows for quicker communication compared to unmyelinated fibers, where the action potential must traverse the entire length of the axon continuously. Additionally, the presence of the myelin sheath reduces the loss of electrical charge along the axon, further enhancing efficient signal transmission.