"Neuroscience III: Sensory Systems"

What is sensory transduction?

The conversion of a physical stimulus into an electrical signal within sensory receptors.

What is perception?

The brain's interpretation of electrical signals received from sensory receptors.

Where does sensation occur versus perception?

Sensation occurs in receptors; perception occurs in the brain.

What do mechanoreceptors detect?

Pressure, vibration, and sound.

What do chemoreceptors detect?

Chemical molecules in the environment, specifically smell and taste.

What is the function of photoreceptors?

To convert light energy into an electrical signal.

What do thermoreceptors detect?

Changes in temperature.

What is the function of nociceptors?

To detect pain.

What does photoreception do?

Converts light into an electrical signal.

What is the role of the cornea in the vertebrate eye?

To bend incoming light.

What is the role of the lens in the vertebrate eye?

To focus light.

Where are photoreceptors located in the vertebrate eye?

In the retina.

What is the function of the optic nerve?

To carry electrical signals from the eye to the brain.

What are the primary characteristics of rods?

They function in dim light, detect no color, and have low acuity.

What are the primary characteristics of cones?

They function in bright light, detect color, and have high acuity.

How does the brain interpret olfactory signals?

Signals are sent to the olfactory bulb, where the brain interprets patterns of activated receptors.

What are the five basic taste categories?

Sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami.

What is the unifying theme of the nervous system?

It links the environment to behavior.