What do dendrites in a neuron primarily do?

Dendrites in a neuron primarily receive information from other neurons. They are branched structures that extend from the neuron's cell body and serve as the primary sites for synaptic connections. When neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of a neighboring neuron, they bind to receptors on the dendrites, allowing the receiving neuron to obtain signals and integrate incoming information. This process is essential for the communication within the nervous system and plays a critical role in how neurons process and respond to stimuli.

The other functions mentioned in the choices do not accurately describe the primary role of dendrites. For example, transmitting impulses is primarily the function of the axon, which sends the electrical signals away from the neuron. Protecting the neuron is more associated with the function of glial cells. Generating energy is mainly the role of metabolic processes in the neuron's cell body, rather than a function of dendrites.