HOW NEURONS COMMUNICATE_sandbox

HOW NEURONS COMMUNICATE_sandbox

HOW NEURONS COMMUNICATE

Neurons release tiny doses of chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Dopamine, epinephrine, serotonin, and GABA are some of the most well known neurotransmitters.

They work in conjunction with electrical signals:


  1. An electrical signal (called an action potential) shoots down an axon.
  2. When it reaches the end, the axon sprays neurotransmitters across a small gap called the synapse). 
  3. The neurotransmitters fit into receptors on the adjacent neuron’s dendrite.
  4. That starts a new action potential.

Watch this one-minute video to learn how neurons communicate.

Some neurotransmitters are EXCITATORY: they increase the likelihood of neuron firing. They’re like neurological green lights.

Some are INHIBITORY: they reduce the likelihood of neuron firing. They’re like neurological red lights.

Psst… hey teachers! Look in your notes for an activity.