A chemical synapse is a specialized junction between two neurons that allows them to communicate. When an electrical signal, or action potential, reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters from vesicles into the synaptic cleft, the small gap between the neurons. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the surface of the receiving neuron, leading to a change in its electrical state. This process is essential for transmitting signals throughout the nervous system, influencing everything from muscle movement to mood regulation. The efficiency and specificity of chemical synapses are crucial for complex functions, such as learning and memory, involving structures like the hippocampus.