How does a syanpse work?

An electrical impulse (action potential) travels along the axon of the pre-synaptic neuron. This causes the neuron to release chemical neurotransmitters which diffuse through the synaptic cleft and bind to the complementary receptor on the post-synaptic neuron. This will then propagate the electrical impulse through the axon of the post-synaptic neuron. 

PD
Answered by Pavleen D. Biology tutor

3247 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is a nephron?


How does the body respond to an increase or decrease in temperature to maintain homeostasis? Why is this important?


What are the neuron types involved in a simple reflex arc?


Describe why a person with type 2 diabetes would struggle to control their blood sugar


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