Question 2 of 25intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer2 marks

What happens at the synapse between two neurons?

Correct Answer

When the electrical impulse reaches the end of the axon, it sets off the release of some chemicals. These chemicals then cross the gap or synapse between the two neurons.

Upon reaching the next neuron, these chemicals start a similar electrical impulse in the dendrite of the next neuron. This is the general scheme of how nervous impulses travel in the body. Synapses also allow delivery of impulses from neurons to other cells such as muscle cells or glands.

Exercise: QUESTIONS | Q: 2 | (Page Page 6)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The textbook clearly explains the mechanism at the synapse. The key process involves conversion of the electrical signal into a chemical signal (neurotransmitters) that crosses the synaptic gap, then converts back into an electrical impulse in the next neuron. This is a fundamental concept in understanding how nervous impulses travel.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Electrical impulse reaches end of axon

  2. Step 2: Chemicals are released at the axon end

  3. Step 3: Chemicals cross the synapse (gap)

  4. Step 4: Chemicals trigger new electrical impulse in dendrite of next neuron

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