Describe the synaptic transmission of a nerve impulse

-action potential arrives at the axon terminal 

-voltage gated calcium ion channels open (due to the influx of sodium),

-calcium ions diffuse into the synaptic knob

-synaptic vesicles containing the neurotranmitter, fuse to the pre synaptic membrane (example Ach)

-exocytosis of neurotransmitter into the synpatic cleft

-neurotransmitter diffuses across synpatic cleft, which binds to receptors

-if sufficient have bound to receptors and action potential is produced, traveling along the second neurone

Answered by Phoebe B. Biology tutor

2219 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do humans regulate their body temperature?


How is a specific protein formed from DNA?


Which mechanisms control the homeostasis of blood sugar levels in the human body? How do these regulate the concentration of sugar in the blood?


Why does fetal haemoglobin have a higher affinity for oxygen than an adult haemoglobin?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences