OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What is the term used to describe the connection point between two neurons?

1. Synapse

2. Dendrite

3. Axon

4. Neurotransmitter

The correct answer is: Synapse

The term used to describe the connection point between two neurons is indeed a synapse. A synapse is a specialized junction where communication occurs between neurons. At this site, the axon terminal of one neuron approaches the dendrite of another. When an electrical impulse travels down the axon of the first neuron, it triggers the release of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft—the small gap at the synapse. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the surface of the receiving neuron's dendrites, facilitating the transmission of the signal. The other options refer to different components of neuronal structure and function. Dendrites are extensions from a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. An axon is the long, thin projection that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals involved in transmitting signals across the synapse but are not the site of connection itself. Thus, synapse is the correct term for the connection point between two neurons.