Final answer:
Long-term potentiation (LTP) is the correct answer to the student's question about the long-lasting increase in neural excitability at synapses, which is pivotal for learning and memory because it enhances synaptic strength.
Step-by-step explanation:
Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a long-lasting increase in neural excitability at synapses along a specific neural pathway. This process is crucial in synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, and plays a fundamental role in learning and memory. LTP occurs when a burst of synaptic activity results in a lasting increase in the synaptic strength. This happens when, for example, NMDA receptors on the postsynaptic neuron become activated due to depolarization, allowing Ca²⁺ ions to enter the cell and initiating a signaling cascade that results in the insertion of more AMPA receptors into the postsynaptic membrane. Consequently, when glutamate is released from the presynaptic neuron, it can bind to more AMPA receptors, leading to a greater excitatory post synaptic potential (EPSP) and thereby increasing the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire. The answer to the student's question: 'Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a long-lasting increase in neural excitability at synapses along a specific neural pathway' is option C) Long-term potentiation.