Synapses are important connections that help neurons talk to each other. They send signals throughout the brain. In fact, the human brain has around 86 billion neurons and about 100 trillion synapses that link them together!

Types of Synapses:

1. Chemical Synapses:

   • These use special chemicals called neurotransmitters to send signals.
   • About 99% of all synapses in our nervous system are chemical ones.
   • How They Work:
     • When a signal arrives, it reaches the part of the neuron called the presynaptic terminal.
     • This opens channels that let calcium in.
     • The neuron then releases neurotransmitters into a small gap called the synaptic cleft.
     • These neurotransmitters attach to receptors on the next neuron. This can either excite the next neuron or slow it down.

2. Electrical Synapses:

   • These connect neurons directly with electrical signals through tiny gaps called gap junctions.
   • Only about 1% of synapses are electrical.

Functionality:

• The strength of these connections can change. This is called synaptic plasticity, and it’s really important for learning new things and remembering them.