During Synaptic Transmission Across a Typical Synapse, Which Action Occurs

Question

During synaptic transmission across a typical synapse, which action occurs?
A) Sodium ions flow into the membrane of the presynaptic neuron.
B) The binding of neurotransmitters triggers the release of potassium ions by the presynaptic neuron.
C) Vesicles containing neurotransmitter molecules diffuse to the receiving neuron's plasma membrane.
D) Neurotransmitter molecules bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.

Accepted Answer

During synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter molecules are released from the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic cleft. These molecules then bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, which can lead to the generation of a new action potential in the receiving neuron. Options A and B are not accurate; sodium ions typically flow into the postsynaptic neuron during synaptic transmission, and neurotransmitter binding does not trigger the release of potassium ions by the presynaptic neuron. Option C is not accurate either; vesicles do not diffuse to the receiving neuron's plasma membrane, but instead fuse with it to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.