Sensory (afferent) division - Sensory Receptors - Adaptation of Sensory Receptors

4 important questions on Sensory (afferent) division - Sensory Receptors - Adaptation of Sensory Receptors

What do the three main types of adaptation in sensory receptors: fast adapting, slow adapting and no adaptation describe?

describe how sensory receptors change their response over time when a constant stimulus is present


How does fast adapting (phasic) adaptation in sensory receptors respond to a constant stimulus? Give an example of what kind of stimulus would trigger this kind of response?

Fire a quick burst of impulses when the stimulus starts, then stop firing quickly even if the stimulus stays
pressure, touch, and smell.


How does slowly adapting (tonic) sensory receptors respond to a constant stimulus? Give an example of what kind of stimulus would trigger this kind of response?

fire impulses as long as the stimulus is there, but the firing rate slows down over time.

steady ache from a hurt muscle or skin burn, Constant pressure or stretch on your skin or organs.
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How does no adaptation (tonic) in sensory receptors respond to a constant stimulus? Give an example of what kind of stimulus would trigger this kind of response?

Keep firing at the same steady rate for as long as the stimulus lasts with almost no change
pain receptors (nociceptors)

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