OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What is the synapse?

1. Connection between two reflex arcs

2. Gap between two neurons

3. Part of the brain for processing

4. Type of motor neuron

The correct answer is: Gap between two neurons

The synapse is accurately identified as the gap between two neurons. It plays a crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system by facilitating communication between neurons. When an impulse reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers. These neurotransmitters cross the synaptic gap and bind to receptors on the adjacent neuron, thereby allowing the transmission of the signal. This process is essential for the relay of information throughout the nervous system, contributing to various functions such as reflexes, muscle movement, and overall coordination of bodily functions. The structure of the synapse allows for a complex network of communication that underpins both simple reflex actions and more complex behaviors. The other options reflect different concepts within biology that do not accurately define a synapse. For instance, a connection between two reflex arcs refers to a broader neurological function rather than the specific structure of a synapse. The part of the brain for processing indicates specific regions responsible for different functions, while a type of motor neuron pertains to a specific classification of nerve cells involved in signaling muscles rather than the junction between them.