What are the events in synaptic transmission?

  1. The presynaptic action potential reaches the synaptic knob. 2) The terminal is depolarised. 3) Voltage gated calcium channels in the presynaptic knob open. 4) Calcium enters through the calcium channels. 5) This calcium ions cause the fusion of synaptic vesicles to the presynaptic membrane. 6) There is neurotransmitter release e.g. acetylcholine by exocytosis. 7) Acetylcholine diffuses across the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. 8) This causes sodium ion channels in the postsynaptic neurone to open. 9) Sodium ions diffuse in. 10) Excitatory postsynaptic potentials are created. If these generator potentials are sufficient, then the postsynaptic terminal reaches threshold potential and there is propagation.
TD
Answered by Tutor33676 D. Biology tutor

30260 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are two protein filaments that interact in the sarcomere to cause muscular contraction?


Explain the process of Oxidative Phosphorylation in cellular respiration


Describe the Cardiac Cycle


Give two similarities and two differences between the structure of starch and cellulose polysaccharides (4 marks).


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