Synapse and Neurotransmitter Release

what happens when an action potential reaches the axon terminal?

it triggers neurotransmitter release

what is the presynaptic terminal?

the releasing side of the synapse, usually the axon terminal of neuron A

what is the postsynaptic side?

the receiving side of the synapse, often dendrites of neuron B

what is the synapse?

the connection/gap where communication occurs between neurons

what does neurotransmitter do after release?

it binds receptors on the postsynaptic cell

why can’t neurotransmitters stay in the synapse forever?

continuous stimulation would be ineffective and disruptive’ they myst be cleaned up or broken down