Neuron Firing

• When sufficiently stimulated, neuron fires a discrete pulse.

• Electric pulse travels down the axon (90 m/sec).

• Synaptic bulb releases neurotransmitter molecules.

• Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic cleft.

• Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on dendrite and stimulate or inhibit the target neuron.

• Scavenger chemicals clean up the neurotransmitters.

• Neuron must recharge before it can fire again.

• Strength of signal is determined by rate of firing (max 1 KHz).

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