Question

The synaptic cleft is

A. a deep furrow in a postsynaptic cell where signals are received
B. specialized channels in the presynaptic membrane that allow the passage of ions.
C. the narrow extracellular space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons at the synapse.
D. recesses in the postsynaptic neuron membrane where neurotransmitters bind.
E. the area of neuronal membrane between the dendrites and the axon hillock.

Answer 1

The synaptic cleft is the small extracellular space that allows neurotransmitters to travel from one neuron to another neuron, facilitating communication between neurons. The answer is option C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The synaptic cleft is the narrow extracellular space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons at the synapse. In a chemical synapse, when an action potential reaches the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron, it stimulates the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles into the synaptic cleft. These neurotransmitters then travel across the small gap and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, facilitating neuronal communication.

In this process, the synapse serves as a junction between the two neurons where the neurotransmitter diffuses from the presynaptic element to the postsynaptic element. The proximity of the presynaptic and postsynaptic cells within the synaptic cleft allows for rapid diffusion and degradation of neurotransmitters, ensuring efficient and precise signal transmission.