Neural Communication

Neuron: A nerve cell that sends and receives information via electrical and chemical signals.

Synapse: The junction where communication occurs between two neurons.

Action Potential: A brief electrical impulse that travels down the axon to transmit a signal.

Resting Potential: The baseline electrical charge of a neuron when it's not firing.

All-or-None Principle: A neuron either fires completely or not at all—there is no partial firing.

Reuptake: The reabsorption of neurotransmitters by the presynaptic neuron after they have transmitted a neural impulse.

Excitatory vs Inhibitory Signals: Excitatory signals increase the likelihood a neuron will fire; inhibitory signals decrease it.

Neurotransmitters: Chemicals that transmit signals across the synapse.

• Dopamine: Involved in movement, reward, and motivation.

• Serotonin: Affects mood, appetite, and sleep.

• Norepinephrine: Influences arousal and alertness.

• Acetylcholine: Involved in muscle contraction and memory.

• GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid): The main inhibitory neurotransmitter.

• Glutamate: The main excitatory neurotransmitter.

• Endorphins: Natural painkillers and mood enhancers.