Final answer:
Dopamine is the neurotransmitter associated with reward and reinforcement in nicotine dependence, resulting from nicotine's stimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and consequent increased dopamine release.
Step-by-step explanation:
The neurotransmitter associated with reward and reinforcement in nicotine dependence is dopamine. When nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, it stimulates the neuron, resulting in the increased release of dopamine. This neurotransmitter is known for its role in the brain's reward circuit, contributing to nicotine's addictive properties. Nicotine mimics the action of acetylcholine, leading to increased activity of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain reward system, and a heightened sense of pleasure and reinforcement, which can lead to dependence and addiction.