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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT true of chemical synapses?
A
They allow direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions between adjacent cells.
B
They involve the binding of neurotransmitters to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.
C
They transmit signals using neurotransmitters released into the synaptic cleft.
D
They can amplify or modulate the strength of a signal.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of chemical synapses. Chemical synapses are specialized junctions between neurons where signals are transmitted using neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.
Step 2: Compare chemical synapses to electrical synapses. Electrical synapses allow direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions between adjacent cells through gap junctions, whereas chemical synapses do not involve direct cytoplasmic exchange.
Step 3: Analyze the statement 'They allow direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions between adjacent cells.' This is characteristic of electrical synapses, not chemical synapses, making this statement incorrect for chemical synapses.
Step 4: Review the other statements about chemical synapses. Chemical synapses involve neurotransmitter binding to receptors, signal transmission via neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, and the ability to amplify or modulate signal strength. All of these are true for chemical synapses.
Step 5: Conclude that the statement 'They allow direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions between adjacent cells' is NOT true of chemical synapses, as this is a feature of electrical synapses instead.