Quiz on Synapse Structure and Function

What is the width of the synaptic cleft?

• 40 nm

• 30 nm

• 20 nm

• 10 nm

What is contained in the synaptic knob?

• Lysosomes

• Ribosomes

• Nucleus

• Mitochondria

What type of neuron carries a nerve impulse towards a synapse?

• Motor neuron

• Sensory neuron

• Presynaptic neuron

• Postsynaptic neuron

What do synaptic vesicles contain?

• Proteins

• Lipids

• Neurotransmitters

• Ions

Which neurotransmitter is secreted by the parasympathetic neuron?

• Acetylcholine

• Norepinephrine

• Serotonin

• Dopamine

What triggers the opening of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels?

• Ion diffusion

• Neurotransmitter binding

• Action potentials

• Hyperpolarization

What happens when neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane?

• They cause depolarization

• They are degraded

• They inhibit action potentials

• They are reabsorbed

What is generated if the depolarization at the postsynaptic membrane is above the threshold level?

• Action potential

• Graded potential

• Resting potential

• Inhibitory postsynaptic potential

What is one method of neurotransmitter removal?

• Reuptake

• Diffusion

• Exocytosis

• Endocytosis

Which enzyme degrades acetylcholine?

• Dipeptidase

• Protease

• Acetylcholinesterase

• Monoamine oxidase