Which structure enables neuron-to-neuron communication?

Which structure enables neuron-to-neuron communication?

• A. Dendrite
• B. Neuron
• C. Axon
• D. Synapse

Answer: (D)

Neuronal communication between cells happens at the synapse. The electrical impulse travels along the axon to the presynaptic terminal, where it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These chemical signals cross the gap and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron's membrane, producing a new electrical response in that neuron. This junction—whether chemical or, in some cases, electrical—is the specific point where information is transferred from one neuron to another. Dendrites are input branches that receive signals, and the axon carries the impulse toward the synapse, but the actual communication between neurons occurs at the synapse.

Neuronal communication between cells happens at the synapse. The electrical impulse travels along the axon to the presynaptic terminal, where it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These chemical signals cross the gap and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron's membrane, producing a new electrical response in that neuron. This junction—whether chemical or, in some cases, electrical—is the specific point where information is transferred from one neuron to another. Dendrites are input branches that receive signals, and the axon carries the impulse toward the synapse, but the actual communication between neurons occurs at the synapse.