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

PB
Answered by Phoebe B. Biology tutor

2646 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the sliding filament theory?


Why do the concentrations of Glycerate-3-phosphate in the chloroplast decreases after dark?


What is the structure of the human gas exchange system- how do we breathe in and out?


In a population of deer there are two alleles, p and q. Individuals with allele p are faster than those with allele q and so are better at avoiding predation by wolves. Explain how natural selection will affect the characteristics of the deer population.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning