Understanding Synapses

Paul Anderson explains synapses, focusing on chemical synapses where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals between neurons. He discusses Otto Loewi's experiment that discovered chemical synapses, compares chemical and electrical synapses, and details the anatomy of chemical synapses. The video also covers how action potentials trigger neurotransmitter release, the role of excitatory and inhibitory signals, and how synapses contribute to memory formation through long-term potentiation.

What is the primary function of a synapse in the nervous system?

• To store neurotransmitters

• To connect neurons and transmit signals

• To generate electrical impulses

• To produce hormones

What did Otto Loewi's experiment with frog hearts demonstrate?

• The role of the brain in heart function

• The presence of chemical synapses

• The effect of temperature on heart rate

• The existence of electrical synapses

Which type of synapse is known for its speed but lack of control?

• Chemical synapse

• Neurotransmitter synapse

• Axonal synapse

• Electrical synapse

What is the primary difference between chemical and electrical synapses?

• Chemical synapses are faster

• Electrical synapses are slower

• Electrical synapses allow more control

• Chemical synapses use neurotransmitters

What role do calcium ions play in chemical synapses?

• They trigger the release of neurotransmitters

• They degrade neurotransmitters

• They block synaptic vesicles

• They inhibit neurotransmitter release

What happens to neurotransmitters after they are released into the synaptic cleft?

• They are absorbed by the synaptic cleft

• They are permanently lost

• They are broken down or recycled

• They remain active indefinitely

What is the role of synaptic vesicles in chemical synapses?

• They generate action potentials

• They release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft

• They block neurotransmitter receptors

• They store calcium ions

How do excitatory neurotransmitters affect a neuron?

• They decrease the likelihood of an action potential

• They increase the likelihood of an action potential

• They have no effect on the neuron

• They inhibit the flow of sodium ions

What is the effect of inhibitory neurotransmitters on a neuron?

• They increase the likelihood of an action potential

• They have no effect on the neuron

• They decrease the likelihood of an action potential

• They enhance the flow of sodium ions

What is long-term potentiation associated with?

• Decreased synaptic activity

• Increased synaptic strength and memory formation

• Inhibition of neurotransmitter release

• Short-term memory loss