When a neurotransmitter makes the postsynaptic cell more positive inside, ____ has occurred.
A) inhibition
B) excitation
C) transformation
D) substitution

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Excitation occurs when a neurotransmitter binds to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane and makes the cell more positive inside by depolarizing the cell. This can trigger an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron. Inhibition, on the other hand, makes the cell more negative inside and makes it less likely to fire an action potential. Transformation and substitution are not relevant terms in this context.

When a Neurotransmitter Makes the Postsynaptic Cell More Positive Inside