Biology: The Dynamic Science (Mind...

4th Edition
Peter J. Russell + 2 others
ISBN: 9781305389892



Biology: The Dynamic Science (Mind...

4th Edition
Peter J. Russell + 2 others
ISBN: 9781305389892
Textbook Problem

Discuss Concepts How did evolution of chemical synapses make higher brain functions possible?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The significance of the evolution of chemical synapses that make higher brain functioning possible.


Synapse is a small gap between two neurons. This space is involved in communication between two neurons. There are two types of synapses: chemical synapse in which physical gap is present between two neurons and electrical synapse in which the plasma membrane of two neurons are joined together by a site called gap-junction.


There is no physical space present between two neurons in an electrical synapse, as a result, transmission of electric impulse is faster on the other hand in chemical synapse due to the presence of a gap between the neuron transmission of electrical impulse is slow. Even though it is slow, evolution of chemical synapse from electrical synapse enabled the brain to function more efficiently.

The electric synapse connection is either on or off and can not be regulated. The electric transmission that passes through electrical synapse gives rise to the rhythmic, same speed, synchronized response. That is why this type of synapse is seen in the retina of the eye, the cardiac muscle of heart where synchronized rhythmic movement is necessary...

Still sussing out bartleby?

Check out a sample textbook solution.

See a sample solution

The Solution to Your Study Problems


Get Started

Additional Science Solutions

Find more solutions based on key concepts

Show solutions add

List the differences between mitosis and meiosis in the following chart:

Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Course List)

___ is the actual path length. (2.2)

An Introduction to Physical Science

Commercial shakes and energy bars have proven to be the best protein sources to support weight-loss efforts. T ...


What is an ion pair?

General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

The highest waterfall in the world is the Salto Angel in Venezuela. Its longest single falls has a height of 80...
