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

2616 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does myelination impact the rate of nervous impulse conduction, include examples


Guillain-Barré syndrome and multiple sclerosis both cause muscle weakness and loss of muscle function. Suggest and describe how the function of neuromuscular junctions will be affected by Guillain-Barré syndrome and multiple sclerosis.


What is the difference between the nervous system and the hormonal system?


Describe the processes and forces that allow water movement up a plant stem.


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