Exploring neural networks

In this section, we will learn how artificial neural networks and neurons are connected together. We will build a neural network and get familiar with its computational representation.

Neural networks were first inspired by biological neurons. When we try to analyze the similarities between an artificial network and a neuron, we realize there isn't much in common. The harsh truth here is that we don't even know what a single neuron does and there are still knowledge gaps regarding how connected neurons learn together so efficiently. But if we were to draw conclusions, we could say that all neurons have the same basic structure, which consists of two major regions:

• The region for receiving and processing incoming information from other cells. This involves the dendrites, which receives the input information, and the nucleus, which processes or transforms the information. 
• The region that conducts and transmits information to other cells. The axon, or the axon terminals, forward this information to many other cells or neurons.