Question

A chemical synapse ALWAYS includes __________.

1. axon terminal
2. presynaptic cell
3. synaptic cleft
4. postsynaptic cell
5. dendrite
A) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
B) 1, 2, 3, 4
C) 2, 3, 4
D) 2, 3, 4, 5
E) 1, 3, 4

Answer 1

A chemical synapse always includes the presynaptic cell, synaptic cleft, and postsynaptic cell. Axon terminals and dendrites are common but not necessary for all synapses, thus the correct answer is Option C) 2, 3, 4.

Step-by-step explanation:

A chemical synapse always includes the following components:

• The presynaptic cell, which is the neuron that sends the signal. It contains synaptic vesicles packed with neurotransmitters.
• The synaptic cleft, which is the narrow space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes where neurotransmitters are released.
• The postsynaptic cell, which receives the signal. It has receptors that bind to the neurotransmitters.

While axon terminals and dendrites are often involved in synaptic transmission, they are not always present in every synapse therefore, they are not required components. The correct answer, in this case, would be Option C) 2, 3, 4, which includes the presynaptic cell, synaptic cleft, and postsynaptic cell.