What is the name of the gap that separates adjacent neurons?

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Study for the HOSA Anatomy and Physiology Assessment. Hone your skills with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for the exam success.

The gap that separates adjacent neurons is known as the synapse. This is a critical junction where neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron and bind to receptors on the adjacent neuron's membrane, facilitating communication between the two neurons.

This specialized gap allows for the transmission of signals in the nervous system, which is essential for functions such as reflexes, muscle movement, and various cognitive processes. Its structure supports both electrical and chemical signaling, making it a vital component in neuronal communication and overall brain function.

The other options represent different terms that do not accurately describe this specific inter-neuronal gap. Neural fissure generally refers to a deeper, structural separation in the brain, neurojunction is not a widely recognized term in neuroscience, and axon terminal refers specifically to the end part of a neuron where neurotransmitters are released, not a gap.

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