What are the tiny gaps between dendrites and axons of different neurons called?

The tiny gaps between dendrites and axons of different neurons are called synapses. These synapses are critical for the communication between neurons, as they serve as junctions where signals are transmitted from one neuron to another. When an electrical signal travels down the axon of a neuron and reaches the synapse, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters then cross the synaptic gap and bind to receptors on the dendrites of the adjacent neuron, facilitating the transmission of the signal.

The concept of synapses is fundamental in neuroscience, as they play an essential role in neuronal communication and the functioning of the nervous system overall. This process allows for the complex signaling that underlies learning, memory, and various functions of the body. Understanding synapses helps in grasping how information is processed and relayed in the brain and throughout the nervous system.