BIO212^MModule^M1^MPPT^M^128Chapter^M16^M10th^MEdition^MAP2^129 copy

Sensory Receptor

Structure specialized to detect a stimulus.

Transduction

The conversion of one form of energy to another, fundamental purpose of any sensory receptor.

Modality

Type of stimulus or the perception it produces, such as vision, hearing, taste.

Receptive Field

Area within which a sensory neuron detects stimuli.

Intensity

Strength of stimulus, encoded by which fibers respond, how many fibers respond, and how fast the fibers are firing.

Sensory Adaptation

If a stimulus is prolonged, firing of the neuron gets slower over time and we become less aware of it.

Phasic Receptors

Adapt quickly; burst of signals when stimulus starts, then reduce/stop signaling.

Tonic Receptors

Adapt slowly; action potentials continue more steadily while stimulus is present.

Nociceptors

Respond to tissue injury, situations threatening damage, activation produces sensation of pain.

Olfaction

Sense of smell, action of odorants on chemoreceptors.

Gustation

The sense of taste, involving receptors that detect tastants dissolved in water.

Cochlea

Organ of hearing that converts vibrations to nerve signals.

Myopia

Nearsightedness where the focal point is in front of the retina.

Hyperopia

Farsightedness where the focal point is behind the retina.

Astigmatism

Caused by unequal curvatures in different parts of the cornea or lens.

Rhythm

The arrangement of sounds in time, encompassing elements such as tempo and meter.

Auditory Pathway

Pathway from sound reception in the cochlea to perception in the auditory cortex.

Photoreceptor

Cells in the retina (rods and cones) that absorb light and generate electrical signals.

Spatial Orientation

Perception of the body's position and motion, crucial for balance.

Referred Pain

Pain perceived at a location different from the site of the painful stimulus.

Neuropathic Pain

Pain arising from injury to the nervous system.