Neural transmission across a mammalian synaptic gap is accomplished by
A)the movement of sodium and potassium ions from the presynaptic neuron into the postsynaptic neuron.
B)impulses travelling as electrical currents across the gap.
C)impulses causing the release of a chemical signal and its diffusion across the gap.
D)impulses ricocheting back and forth across the gap.
E)the movement of calcium ions from the presynaptic into the postsynaptic neuron.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neural transmission across a mammalian synaptic gap is accomplished by impulses causing the release of a chemical signal (neurotransmitter) and its diffusion across the gap. The neurotransmitter binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, causing depolarization or hyperpolarization and the continuation or inhibition of the signal. Sodium, potassium, and calcium ions are involved in this process, but they do not cross the synaptic gap to facilitate transmission.

Neural Transmission Across a Mammalian Synaptic Gap Is Accomplished by