Chapter 6 - Receptors Flashcards
What is a receptor?
A structure that is able to detect a change in the body’s internal or external environment.
Where are receptors found?
- grouped together in sense organs (light receptors in the eye)
- nerve endings spread through parts of or the whole body (pain cells)
What are thermoreceptors?
Receptors that can detect changes in heat and cold
Where are thermoreceptors found?
- central: hypothalamus
- peripheral: skin mucous glands
What monitors the surface temperature?
Peripheral thermoreceptors
How specific are peripheral thermoreceptors?
- some detect heat or cold
- some detect both
What is osmotic pressure determined by?
The concentration of substances dissolved in the water of the blood plasma
Where are osmoreceptors located?
Hypothalamus
What do chemoreceptors do?
Detect concentrations of certain chemicals
What stimulates pain receptors?
Damage to tissues
- eg. Cut, excessive stimulation from stimuli such as heat or chemicals
Why is pain essential?
It warns us that damage to tissues is taking place so prevention of this damage can occur
What is a negative feedback system?
A system in which the response is the opposite of the original stimuli by reducing or eliminating the stimulus
What are tolerance limits?
The upper and lower limits to a range of factors
