The+Neural+Synapse

Neuron Synapse - the site of functional apposition between neurons, where an impulse is transmitted from one to another

Synapses are specialized places between two nerve cells used for signal transmission between them. Neurotransmitters are chemicals released by neurons, that stimulate neighboring neurons and chemically pass electrical impulses to one another and throughout the nervous system.

Structure of a synapse:

1. A pre-synaptic ending 2. a gap (synaptic cleft) between two neurons 3. A post-synaptic (receiving) ending synapse the site of functional apposition between neurons, where an impulse is transmitted from one to another, usually by a chemical neurotransmitter released by the axon terminal of the pre-synaptic neuron. The neurotransmitter diffuses across the gap to bind with receptors on the post-synaptic cell membrane and cause electrical changes in that neuron (depolarization/excitation or hyperpolarization/inhibition).