Topic 2 - The Synapse

Question 1

What’s a synapse?

Answer 1

A gap between 2 neurones

Question 2

What happens at the synapse

Answer 2

• When an impulse reaches the end of a neurone a chemical (neurotransmitter) is released across the gap
• the chemical then diffuses across the synapse,
• when it reaches the next neurone it starts another impulse

Question 3

What’s the function of an axon?

Answer 3

Carries electrical impulses away from the cell body

Question 4

What’s the function of a dendron?

Answer 4

Carries electrical impulses from the receptor towards the cell body

Question 5

What’s the function of a dendrite?

Answer 5

receive electrical impulses

Question 6

What’s the function of myelin sheath?

Answer 6

an insulating layer that forms around nerves and allows impulses to travel quickly

Question 7

What’s the function of a neurotransmitter?

Answer 7

passes impulses from one nerve cell to another across a synapse

Question 8

What’s the function of a synapse?

Answer 8

Ensures impulses travel in one direction