Explain how neurotransmitters are transmitted across the synapse?

The action potential travels down the presynaptic neuron, depolarising the membraneCauses voltage-gated calcium channels to openCalcium ions cause the neurotransmitter to fuse with the membraneThe neurotransmitter is released into the synaptic cleft by exocytosisIt then binds to receptors on the post-synaptic neuronEnzymes then break down the neurotransmitter so it only produced a discreet signalThe action potential is carried along by causing depolarisation in the post-synaptic knob

HI
Answered by Hasan I. Biology tutor

2680 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how the SAN and AVN control the cardiac cycle.


What kinds of valves are found in the human circulatory system and how do they differ?


Describe the events that take place to generate an action potential at a nerve synapse


Describe the differences between mitosis and meiosis and when would these occur in mammalian cells?


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