What's the difference between a Synapse and a Neuromuscular Junction?

The two are very similar! A synapse is a junction between a Neurone and the next cell. A neuromuscular junction is a kind of synapse, one that occurs between Motor Neurones and Muscle cells. Action potentials are passed from neurones to muscle cells, stimulating movement of the muscle cells. Neuromuscular Junctions work in the same way as a synapse, with a few important differences:  - Neuromuscular junctions have more receptors on the postsynaptic membrane than other synapses.  - When a motor neurone fires an Action Potential, it always triggers a response in the muscle cell. (This isn't always the case in a synapse between two neurones).

BR
Answered by Ben R. Biology tutor

65425 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the transmission of nerve impulses across a cholinergic synapse


The Pacinian corpuscle senses changes in pressure in the skin. Explain how pressure causes the cell to change its membrane potential to elicit a nerve response.


How is DNA packaged within Eukaryotic Cell nucleosomes


Describe how an atheroma may lead to a myocardial infarction.


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