Sensory Processing

Question 1

Threshold of conscious perception

Answer 1

If below this stimulus, reaches CNS but doesn’t reach higher order brain region that controls attention/conscious

Question 2

Difference threshold

Answer 2

Minimum difference in in magnitude between two stimuli before one can perceive the difference

Question 3

Weber’s law

Answer 3

States there is a constant ratio between changed stimulus needed to produce just notable difference and magnitude of original stimulus

Question 4

Signal detection theory

Answer 4

Focuses on change in perception of same stimuli depending on external and internal context. Allows to explore response bias. (Box)

Question 5

Psychophysics

Answer 5

Scientific study of relationship between stimuli and sensations and perceptions evoked by these stimuli

Question 6

Ganglia

Answer 6

Collection of neurons that are found outside of CNS

Question 7

Photoreceptors

Answer 7

Respond to electromagnetic waves in visible spectrum (vision)

Question 8

Hair cells

Answer 8

Respond to movement of fluid in inner ear (hearing)

Question 9

Nociceptors

Answer 9

Respond to painful stimuli (somatosensation)

Question 10

Thermoreceptors

Answer 10

Respond to changes in temp (somatosensation)

Question 11

Osmoreceptors

Answer 11

Respond to changes in blood osmolarity (water homeostasis)

Question 12

Olfactory receptors

Answer 12

Respond to volatile compounds (smell)

Question 13

Taste receptors

Answer 13

Respond to dissolved compounds (taste)

Question 14

Absolute threshold

Answer 14

Minimum stimulus that is needed to activate sensory system (minimum to make it to CNS)