Synapses in AP Psychology

Definition

Synapses are tiny gaps at the junctions between two neurons where signals are transmitted from one neuron to another.

Related terms

Neurotransmitters:

These are chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron (nerve cell) to another 'target' neuron.

Reuptake:

This is a process in which neurotransmitters that have not been received by the next neuron are taken back up into the sending neuron. It’s like if a post office took back any undelivered mail.

Axon:

This is the long threadlike part of a nerve cell along which impulses are conducted from the cell body to other cells. It's like the delivery truck that carries messages away from the neuron.