Understanding Synaptic Transmission

The video explains synaptic transmission, a key process in neuron communication. It describes the synapse, where neurons exchange chemical signals across a small gap called the synaptic cleft. The presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitters, which bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, potentially triggering an action potential. The video also covers how neurotransmitters are cleared from the synaptic cleft through diffusion, reuptake, or enzymatic breakdown.

What is the primary function of a synapse in neural communication?

• To physically connect two neurons

• To store neurotransmitters

• To allow chemical signals to pass between neurons

• To generate electrical signals

How wide is the synaptic cleft compared to a human hair?

• Twice as wide

• Less than 40 nm wide

• 75,000 nanometers wide

• About the same width

What is the role of the presynaptic neuron?

• To store electrical signals

• To break down neurotransmitters

• To initiate and send signals to the postsynaptic neuron

• To receive signals from other neurons

What triggers the release of neurotransmitters from the presynaptic neuron?

• A chemical signal

• A decrease in temperature

• An action potential

• A mechanical force

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

• They cause an action to occur in the postsynaptic cell

• They are converted into electrical signals

• They are immediately broken down

• They are stored for later use

Which process involves neurotransmitters drifting away from the synaptic cleft?

• Reuptake

• Recycling

• Diffusion

• Enzymatic breakdown

What is reuptake in the context of synaptic transmission?

• The breakdown of neurotransmitters by enzymes

• The drifting away of neurotransmitters

• The conversion of neurotransmitters into electrical signals

• The absorption of neurotransmitters back into the presynaptic neuron

What happens to neurotransmitters after they are taken back into the presynaptic neuron?

• They are broken down and discarded

• They are recycled and reused

• They are converted into electrical signals

• They are stored in the synaptic cleft

How are neurotransmitters broken down in the synaptic cleft?

• By electrical signals

• By mechanical forces

• By diffusion

• By enzymes