Question 1: A synapse is a specialised junction between two neurons where nerve signals are transmitted. It allows the impulse to pass from one neuron to another, often involving the release of chemical messengers.

Answer: A junction between two neurons that transmits nerve impulses using chemical signals.

Question 2: Describe the main structural components of a synapse.

Answer: Presynaptic terminal, synaptic cleft, postsynaptic membrane, neurotransmitter vesicles.

Question 1: Explain the process by which an electrical nerve impulse leads to the release of neurotransmitters at a synapse.

Answer: When an electrical impulse reaches the presynaptic terminal, it triggers the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels. Calcium ions enter the neuron, causing synaptic vesicles to fuse with the presynaptic membrane and release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These chemicals diffuse across the cleft and bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, generating a new electrical impulse in the receiving neuron.

Question 2: What role do neurotransmitters play in synaptic transmission?

Answer: They carry signals across the synaptic cleft by binding to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, enabling the continuation of the nerve impulse.

Question 1: Which type of synapse is more common in the human nervous system?

Answer: Chemical synapse

Question 2: Explain why chemical synapses are more prevalent than electrical synapses.

Answer: Chemical synapses allow unidirectional transmission and greater modulation of signals, making them more versatile for complex processes in the nervous system.

Question 1: Identify two factors that can increase the effectiveness of synaptic transmission.

Answer: Increased neurotransmitter release, higher receptor sensitivity.

Question 2: Describe one mechanism the nervous system uses to prevent overstimulation at synapses.

Answer: Reuptake of neurotransmitters into the presynaptic neuron or breakdown by enzymes such as acetylcholinesterase.

Question 1: Propose a simple experiment to investigate the effect of a drug that blocks neurotransmitter receptors at synapses.

Answer: Design an experiment using nerve cells or a model system where one group is exposed to the drug and another is not. Measure the response or transmission speed. Control variables include temperature, pH, and neuron type. Safety precautions include handling chemicals with care and proper disposal.

Question 2: Explain how understanding synaptic function can aid in the development of treatments for neurological disorders.

Answer: Knowledge of synaptic mechanisms allows for targeted drug development to modify neurotransmitter activity, treat synaptic dysfunctions, and manage conditions like depression, epilepsy, and Parkinson's disease.