Explain the process of synaptic transmission

Electrical impulses are sent through a neuron’s axon which are translated into chemical signals at the terminal button. Here, vesicles containing neurotransmitters are released which fuse with the outer membrane of the neuron and release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. Here, the neurotransmitters will bind to a specific neurotransmitter receptor and eventually trigger the release of another electrical impulse in the postsynaptic neuron (generated by the axon hillock). Neurotransmitters which haven’t binded are either destroyed by enzymes in the cleft or reuptaken by the presynaptic neuron. 

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe ways in which dysfunctional behaviours can be classified


Outline the influence of childhood and adolescent experiences on adult relationships.


Research often uses laboratory experiments. Outline one weakness and one strength of this method.


Describe and discuss factors that effect obedience in Psychology