02 Sensation and Perception Flashcards
Sensory Receptors
neurons that respond to stimuli + trigger electrical signals through sensory ganglia.
Ganglia
collections of neuron cell bodies found outside the CNS.
Photoreceptor
(sensory receptor) - sight.
Responds to EM waves in visible spectrum.
Hair Cells
(sensory receptor) - hearing, rotational/linear acceleration.
Responds to movement of fluid in inner ear structures.
Nociceptors
(sensory receptor) - somatosensation.
Responds to painful/noxious stimuli.
Thermoreceptors
(sensory receptor) - thermosensation
Responds to change in temperature.
Osmoreceptors
(sensory receptor) - water homeostasis.
Responds to osmolarity of blood.
Olfactory Receptors
(sensory receptor) - smell.
Responds to volatile compounds.
Chemoreceptors
(sensory receptor) - taste.
Responds to dissolved compounds.
Absolute Threshold
minimum stimulus energy needed to activate sensory system —> sensation threshold.
Threshold of Conscious Perception
thresholds = limina. Subliminal perception = perception of a stimulus below this threshold.
Difference Threshold (jnd)
minimum difference in magnitude b/t 2 stimuli before it can be perceived.
Weber’s Law
states the jnd for a stimulus is proportional to the magnitude of the stimulus. Constant RATIO!
Signal Detection Theory
perception of stimuli can be affected by nonsensory factors (e.g. experiences, expectations).
Adaptation
decrease in response to a stimulus over time.
