difference between axon and synapse? An axon is a long and thin projection from a neuron that carries electrical signals (or nerve impulses) away from the cell body and towards other neurons, muscles or glands. A synapse is a small junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell, where they communicate with each other by exchanging chemical or electrical signals. In other words, the axon is a part of the neuron that transmits signals over longer distances, while the synapse is a small gap or interface that facilitates communication between two adjacent neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell. Neuroscience cheasheet in markdown table: | **Neuroscience Key Terms** | **Definition** | | -------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Neuron | A cell in the nervous system that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals | | Action potential | An electrical impulse that travels along a neuron's axon and allows for communication between neurons | | Synapse | The junction between two neurons where chemical neurotransmitters are released to transmit information | | Neurotransmitter | A chemical substance released at the synapse that transmits information from one neuron to another | | Plasticity | The brain's ability to change in response to experiences, learning, or damage | | Central nervous system | Consists of the brain and spinal cord, and is responsible for receiving, integrating, and processing sensory information | | Peripheral nervous system | Consists of nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord, and is responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information to and from the central nervous system | | Glia | Non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that provide support and insulation for neurons, and play roles in development, communication, and immunity | | Cerebral cortex | The outer layer of the brain responsible for advanced cognitive functions, such as perception, decision-making, and language | | Limbic system | A group of brain structures involved in emotion, motivation, and memory | | Dopamine | A neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and movement | | Serotonin | A neurotransmitter involved in mood, appetite, and sleep | | Norepinephrine | A neurotransmitter involved in arousal and stress response | | Endorphins | Natural neurotransmitters that bind to opioid receptors and reduce pain and stress | | **Axon** | **Synapse** | | ------------------------------------------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | A long and thin projection from a neuron | A small junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell | | Carries electrical signals away from the cell body | Facilitates communication between adjacent neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell | | Transmits signals over longer distances | Exchanges chemical or electrical signals | | Sends information to other neurons, muscles, or glands | Allows for neural processing and signaling to occur | | Forms part of the neuron | Forms a gap or interface between neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell |