Synaptic Transmission - GCSE Psychology Definition

Synaptic transmission is the process by which nerve cells, called neurons, communicate with each other in the brain. It happens at a gap called the synapse, which is found between two neurons. When one neuron wants to send a message to the next, it releases chemicals called neurotransmitters into the synapse. These chemicals then travel across the gap to the next neuron, which has special receptors that can catch them. Once caught, the message continues its journey through the brain, allowing a range of behaviours such as contentment, memory, movement to take place. This process is important for everything the brain does, from learning new information to experiencing emotions.