Synaptic Transmission & Neurotransmitters — NEET Biology
✅ Asked in NEET 2026At a chemical synapse, the membranes of the pre- and post-synaptic neurons are separated by a fluid-filled space called synaptic cleft. Do you know how the pre-synaptic neuron transmits an impulse (action potential) across the synaptic cleft to the post-synaptic neuron? Chemicals called neurotransmitters are involved in the transmission of impulses at these synapses. The axon terminals contain vesicles filled with these neurotransmitters. When an impulse (action potential) arrives at the axon terminal, it stimulates the movement of the synaptic vesicles towards the membrane where they fuse with the plasma
NTA tests the mechanism of impulse transmission across the synaptic cleft via neurotransmitters. The core concept: action potentials stimulate synaptic vesicles in the axon terminal to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, releasing neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, which bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane. Common student mistakes: confusing presynaptic and postsynaptic roles, thinking impulses cross the cleft electrically, or forgetting that neurotransmitters are chemicals, not electrical signals. Remember: synaptic transmission is always chemical at these junctions—the vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release process is the key mechanism NEET focuses on. This concept bridges cellular and organismal physiology, making it essential for coordination and control topics.
The specific receptors for neurotransmitters in a synapse are present on
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