What sensory receptors are responsible for detecting pressure?

Prepare for the ATI Neurosensory Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Mechanoreceptors are specialized sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. They are responsible for detecting various types of mechanical stimuli, including touch, vibration, and proprioception, which relates to the sense of body position and movement. When pressure is applied to the skin or other tissues, mechanoreceptors become activated, initiating a nerve impulse that is then transmitted to the brain for processing.

Photoreceptors, on the other hand, are sensitive to light and enable vision. Thermoreceptors detect changes in temperature, while chemoreceptors respond to chemical stimuli, such as taste and smell. These receptors have distinct functions and are not involved in the detection of pressure, highlighting the unique role mechanoreceptors play in sensory perception related to mechanical forces.

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