Here's why:

* Axons are the long, slender projections of a neuron. They act like transmission cables, carrying electrical signals (action potentials) from the cell body (soma) to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

* Dendrites, on the other hand, receive signals from other neurons and carry them towards the cell body.

Think of it like this:

* Cell body: The control center of the neuron

* Dendrites: The "ears" of the neuron, listening for incoming signals

* Axon: The "mouth" of the neuron, sending out signals to other cells

This directional flow of information is crucial for communication within the nervous system.