The ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken based on the activity they receive is known as?

The correct response to the question is synaptic plasticity. This term refers to the capacity of synapses—the connections between neurons—to become stronger or weaker depending on the level of activity they experience. This adaptability is crucial for various neural processes, including learning, memory, and overall brain function.

When synapses are frequently used, they may undergo changes that enhance their efficiency, leading to improved communication between neurons. Conversely, synapses that are less actively stimulated can become weaker, which can diminish the effectiveness of neuronal communication over time. This process is fundamental to the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize itself, reflecting how experiences can shape the neural networks.

The other terms listed pertain to different concepts in neuroscience. Neurotransmission involves the process of transmitting signals across synapses via neurotransmitters, action potential refers to the electrical impulses that neurons use to communicate, and neurogenesis is the process of forming new neurons. Each of these plays a significant role in neuroscience, but they do not capture the specific dynamic of synapses adjusting their strength in response to activity, which is the essence of synaptic plasticity.