What best describes a synapse?

A synapse is best described as a junction between two neurons. This specialized structure facilitates communication between nerve cells, allowing the transmission of signals through the release of neurotransmitters. When an electrical impulse reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of these chemicals, which then travel across the synaptic gap to bind with receptors on the adjacent neuron. This process is essential for the functioning of the nervous system, enabling everything from reflexes to complex behaviors. Understanding the role of synapses is critical in fields such as neuroscience and psychology, as they are fundamental to how information is processed in the brain and how various functions and responses occur within the body.