Proprioceptors are classified as which type of receptor?

• A. Photoreceptors
• B. Thermoreceptors
• C. Chemoreceptors
• D. Mechanoreceptors

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of proprioceptors: Proprioceptors are specialized sensory receptors located in muscles, tendons, and joints that provide information about body position, movement, and muscle tension.
2. Review the types of sensory receptors: Sensory receptors are classified based on the type of stimulus they detect. For example, photoreceptors detect light, thermoreceptors detect temperature changes, chemoreceptors detect chemical changes, and mechanoreceptors detect mechanical forces such as pressure, vibration, and stretch.
3. Identify the function of proprioceptors: Proprioceptors respond to mechanical changes such as stretch and tension in muscles and tendons, as well as joint position. This aligns with the function of mechanoreceptors, which detect mechanical stimuli.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Photoreceptors are involved in vision, thermoreceptors detect temperature, and chemoreceptors detect chemical changes. None of these functions align with the role of proprioceptors.
5. Conclude that proprioceptors are a type of mechanoreceptor because they detect mechanical changes in the body, such as stretch and tension, to provide information about body position and movement.