Communications between Neurons (The Synapse)

Question 1

where can a synapse be found

Answer 1

where nerve impusles are transmitted from a presynaptic cell to a postsynaptic cell

Question 2

what is the function of synapses

Answer 2

allow for communication between a nerve and effector cells

Question 3

explain the process of a chemical synapse

Answer 3

presynaptic membrane releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. the neurotransmitter now diffuses across the synaptic cleft to gated ion channel receptors. binding results in ion channels opening = uptake of ions, reversing the membrane potentials.

Question 4

what is depolarisation of postsynaptic membrane

Answer 4

this initiates action potential when a threshold is reached

Question 5

what is hyperpolarisation

Answer 5

inhibition of action potentials

Question 6

define axodendritic synapse

Answer 6

between axon and dendrite

Question 7

define axosomatic synapse

Answer 7

between axon and soma

Question 8

define axoaxonic synapse

Answer 8

between two axons

Question 9

define dendodendritic synapse

Answer 9

between two dendrites

Question 10

by what process are neurotransmitters released

Answer 10

exocytosis

Question 11

what is the post synaptic web

Answer 11

responsible for maintaining synapse integrity

Question 12

what is the most common neurotransmitter

Answer 12

acetylcholine

Question 13

what decomposes neurotransmitters in a synaptic cleft

Answer 13

enzymes