Explain the way neurons communicate

All functions performed by the nervous system—from a simple motor reflex to more advanced functions like making a memory or a decision—require neurons to communicate with one another. While humans use words and body language to communicate, neurons use electrical and chemical signals. Just like a person in a committee, one neuron usually receives and synthesizes messages from multiple other neurons before “making the decision” to send the message on to other neurons.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Describe the basis of the resting membrane potential
• Explain the stages of an action potential and how action potentials are propagated
• Explain the similarities and differences between chemical and electrical synapses
• Describe the process of signal summation
• Discuss the processes involved in synaptic plasticity

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• Resting Membrane Potential
• Action Potential
• Chemical and Electrical Synapses
• Signal Summation
• Synaptic Plasticity
• Self Check: Neuron Communication