parts of a synapse

ligand

a chemical that binds to another chemical

synapse

a point of communication at the gap between two neurons

receptors

a protein that resides on the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron

ligand-gated channel

ion channel that opens temporarily when a neurotransmitter binds to it

voltage gated channel

membrane channel whose permeability to sodium (for some other ion) depends on the voltage difference across the membrane

postsynaptic cell

neuron on the receiving end of a synapse

presynaptic cell

neuron on the releasing end of a synapse

vesicles

tiny nearly spherical packets where neurotransmitters are packaged

neurotransmitters

chemicals released by neurons that affects other neurons

synaptic cleft

the space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons