Biopsychology

Question 1

Synaptic transmission

Answer 1

1. In order for signals to be sent between neurons, action potentials need to be converted from electrical
   signals into chemical signals, via synaptic transmission
2. Inside a neuron, the electrical impulse/action potentials reach the end of the presynaptic neuron, to the
   terminal buttons.
3. This triggers the synaptic vesicles to release neurotransmitters into the synapse [so the signal is now
   chemical].
4. Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors in the in postsynaptic neuron
   [signal now converted back into electrical].
5. Neurotransmitters either have an excitatory or inhibitory effect, resulting in the neuron becoming more
   positively charged or more negatively charged.
6. Through the process of summation, this may result in depolarisation, making the post synaptic neuron
   more likely to fire an action potential again.