Question

Of chemical and electrical synapses, which statement is best?

A. Both can usually be either excitatory or inhibitory
B. Chemical synapses influence learning
C. Both carry electrical signals between axons
D. Electrical synapses involve ionotropic receptors

Answer 1

The best statement is that 'Chemical synapses influence learning' because their ability to strengthen or weaken over time is crucial for learning processes, unlike electrical synapses which are characterized by their speed and direct current passage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of chemical and electrical synapses, the statement 'Chemical synapses influence learning' is best. Chemical synapses are critical in the process of learning because they can be strengthened or weakened over time, a process known as synaptic plasticity. On the other hand, electrical synapses are faster than chemical ones as they allow the direct passage of current from one neuron to another. While both types of synapses can be excitatory or inhibitory, only chemical synapses involve ionotropic or metabotropic receptors which are directly impacted by neurotransmitters during synaptic transmission.