Sensory Receptors
Sensory receptors are specialized cells or nerve endings that respond to specific types of stimuli from the environment and convert them into electrical signals that the nervous system can process.
Types of Sensory Receptors
- Mechanoreceptors: Detect pressure, vibration, and touch (e.g., in skin and inner ear).
- Thermoreceptors: Respond to changes in temperature (cold and heat).
- Photoreceptors: Found in the retina of the eye, respond to light (rods and cones).
- Chemoreceptors: Detect chemical stimuli, such as taste and smell.
- Nociceptors: Sense pain from chemical, mechanical, or thermal damage.
Function
These receptors convert physical or chemical stimuli into nerve impulses, which are transmitted to the central nervous system for interpretation, enabling sensations such as touch, sight, smell, taste, hearing, and pain.
In conclusion, sensory receptors are crucial for perception and help organisms react and adapt to their environment effectively.