Types of Synapses in Neurons Quiz

What type of synapse allows free movement of ions between neurons through small protein tubular structures called gap junctions?

Electrical synapse

In chemical synapses, the first neuron secretes a chemical substance called a neurotransmitter into a gap known as the:

Synaptic gap

Which synapse type can transmit signals more slowly but allows for both excitatory and inhibitory actions?

Chemical synapse

What is the part of a neuron conducting an action potential towards another neuron called?

Presynaptic neuron Signup and view all the answers

Which synapse is associated with complex human behaviors such as learning and memory?

Chemical synapse Signup and view all the answers

What structure in a presynaptic neuron is filled with neurotransmitters and releases them into the synaptic cleft during signal transmission?

Neurotransmitter vesicle Signup and view all the answers

What is synaptic potentiation?

The production of larger-than-expected postsynaptic potentials due to repeated use of a synapse Signup and view all the answers

How do chemically gated channels (NMDA receptors) contribute to synaptic potentiation?

They allow Ca2+ entry which activates kinase enzymes promoting more effective responses to subsequent stimuli Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of presynaptic inhibition?

Inhibition of excitatory neurotransmitter release from the presynaptic cell Signup and view all the answers

How are neurotransmitters classified based on their effects?

Excitatory or inhibitory and direct or indirect effects Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes channel-linked receptors from G protein-linked receptors in terms of neurotransmitter action?

Channel-linked receptors mediate direct transmitter action and result in brief, localized changes; G protein-linked receptors mediate indirect action leading to slow and diffuse changes Signup and view all the answers

How many different neurotransmitters have been identified so far?

50 Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of an inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP)?

Induce hyperpolarization and make the inside of the cell more negative Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary ion involved in inhibitory synapses?

Chloride (Cl-) Signup and view all the answers

What happens during temporal summation in synaptic transmission?

Multiple EPSPs add up over time to reach the threshold for firing Signup and view all the answers

How does spatial summation contribute to neuronal excitation?

Terminals spread over wide areas add up their effects until firing threshold is reached Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when a neuron is 'facilitated'?

The membrane potential is close to the firing threshold, making excitation easier Signup and view all the answers

How does rapid rate of stimulation affect postsynaptic potential?

It increases the postsynaptic potential Signup and view all the answers