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
Neural firing rates refer to the frequency or rate at which neurons send electrical signals, known as action potentials, within the brain and nervous system. It reflects the intensity and speed of neural communication.
Synaptic transmission refers to the process by which information is transmitted from one neuron to another across a synapse. It involves chemical signals called neurotransmitters that influence whether or not an action potential will be generated in the receiving neuron.
Excitatory Neurotransmitters: Excitatory neurotransmitters are chemicals released by neurons that increase the likelihood of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron, thus increasing neural firing rates.
Inhibitory Neurotransmitters: Inhibitory neurotransmitters are chemicals released by neurons that decrease the likelihood of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron, thus decreasing neural firing rates.