What characteristic distinguishes grey matter from white matter?

The distinguishing characteristic of grey matter is that it is primarily composed of unmyelinated neurons and their cell bodies, which is not the case for white matter. Grey matter contains neuronal cell bodies, dendrites, and unmyelinated axons, while white matter is characterized by myelinated axons that facilitate faster signal transmission.

The presence of myelin sheath is specific to white matter, where myelin wraps around the axons to enhance the speed of electrical conduction. This difference in myelination is fundamental because it reflects the different functions and roles of grey and white matter within the nervous system.

The ability to repair typically refers to the regenerative capabilities of nervous tissue, which can vary but is not a defining characteristic that distinguishes grey matter from white matter.

Location in the nervous system can describe where grey and white matter are found, but it does not define the fundamental differences between their compositions and functions. Overall, the unmyelinated nature of grey matter is crucial for its role in processing and integrating information, while the myelinated axons in white matter are more involved in transmitting signals over longer distances.