Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A chemical synapse is a type of synapse that uses neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers, to transmit signals from one neuron (nerve cell) to another.
These are endogenous chemicals that enable neurotransmission. They transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron (nerve cell) to another 'target' neuron.
Synaptic Cleft: This is a gap between two nerve cells which forms a junction for transmission of nerve impulses through release of neurotransmitters.
Receptor Site: This refers to specific areas on dendrites or neurons designed to receive specific neurotransmitters. It's similar to how only certain keys can open certain locks.