Synapses and Action Potentials

Front

What is a synapse?

Back

A synapse is the junction between two neurons, where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.

Front

What is resting potential?

Back

Resting potential is the electrical charge difference across the neuron's membrane when it is not actively transmitting a signal, typically around -70mV.

Front

What happens during depolarization?

Back

During depolarization, sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to flow into the neuron, making the inside more positive.

Front

What restores resting potential after depolarization?

Back

Potassium channels open, allowing potassium ions to diffuse out of the neuron, restoring the resting potential.

Front

What is an action potential?

Back

An action potential is a rapid change in the membrane potential of a neuron that occurs when it is stimulated, leading to the transmission of a nerve impulse.

Front

What role do neurotransmitters play in synapses?

Back

Neurotransmitters are chemicals released from the axon terminal of a neuron that bind to receptors on the next neuron, facilitating signal transmission.

Front

What is the function of dendrites?

Back

Dendrites are the branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Front

What is the significance of the threshold potential?

Back

Threshold potential is the critical level to which a membrane potential must be depolarized to initiate an action potential.

Front

What occurs during repolarization?

Back

During repolarization, potassium ions exit the neuron, returning the membrane potential back toward resting potential.

Front

What is the all-or-nothing principle in action potentials?

Back

The all-or-nothing principle states that once the threshold is reached, an action potential will occur fully; it does not vary in strength.