Question

Of chemical and electrical synapses, which statement is best?

A) Both can be either excitatory or inhibitory
B) Electrical synapses use synaptic vesicles
C) Chemical synapses influence learning
D) Both carry electrical signals between axons

Answer 1

Chemical synapses depend on the release of neurotransmitter molecules from synaptic vesicles and have a delay of approximately one millisecond. Electrical synapses have instantaneous signaling and can be bidirectional, playing a role in synchronizing electrical activity in a group of neurons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chemical and electrical synapses have key differences. In chemical synapses, neurotransmitter molecules are released from synaptic vesicles to transmit the signal. This process has a delay of approximately one millisecond and is unidirectional. Electrical synapses, however, have virtually instantaneous signaling and can be bidirectional. They are also more reliable and important for synchronizing electrical activity in a group of neurons.