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

62657 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does the process of transcription work?


Describe how an action potential is transmitted down the axon of a myelinated neurone


What is the all or nothing principle?


Cells need mRNA molecules to create proteins. How are they created?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning