Synapses are like tiny bridges that help neurons (brain cells) talk to each other. Here’s how they work:
Structure: Each synapse has two main parts. There’s the presynaptic neuron, which sends signals, and the postsynaptic neuron, which receives them.
Neurotransmitters: When a signal reaches the end of the presynaptic neuron, it releases special chemicals called neurotransmitters into the gap between the two neurons, known as the synaptic cleft.
Receptors: These neurotransmitters then stick to spots called receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This can either cause the neuron to get excited or to calm down.
Importance: This whole process is super important! It helps our brain communicate and is key to everything we do, from simple reflexes like jumping back from something hot, to more complex behaviors like solving a math problem.
Overall, synapses are really important for our brains to work well and to help us respond to everything happening around us!
Synapses are like tiny bridges that help neurons (brain cells) talk to each other. Here’s how they work:
Structure: Each synapse has two main parts. There’s the presynaptic neuron, which sends signals, and the postsynaptic neuron, which receives them.
Neurotransmitters: When a signal reaches the end of the presynaptic neuron, it releases special chemicals called neurotransmitters into the gap between the two neurons, known as the synaptic cleft.
Receptors: These neurotransmitters then stick to spots called receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This can either cause the neuron to get excited or to calm down.
Importance: This whole process is super important! It helps our brain communicate and is key to everything we do, from simple reflexes like jumping back from something hot, to more complex behaviors like solving a math problem.
Overall, synapses are really important for our brains to work well and to help us respond to everything happening around us!