Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of sensory transduction in a mechanoreceptor?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical stimulus opens mechanically-gated Na$^+$ channels, leading to a receptor potential. If threshold is reached, voltage-gated Na$^+$ channels open, generating an action potential.

Question 2

A patient has difficulty distinguishing between two closely spaced points on their forearm but not on their fingertip. Which of the following best explains this phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

The fingertip has a higher density of sensory neurons with small receptive fields, allowing for better two-point discrimination.

Question 3

Which mechanoreceptor is responsible for detecting vibration and deep pressure in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscle

Question 4

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the somatic sensory division of the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It carries general sensory signals from muscles, bones, joints, and skin, as well as special sensory signals.

Question 5

A person touches a hot surface and quickly withdraws their hand. Which pathway is primarily responsible for carrying this sensory information to the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Somatic sensory division

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the relationship between receptor potentials and action potentials in sensory neurons?

Accepted Answer

Receptor potentials are graded and can summate; if threshold is reached, an action potential (all-or-none) is generated.

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the conduction of a somatic sensory signal from the skin to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Stimulus → receptor potential → action potential in sensory neuron → spinal cord → thalamus → somatosensory cortex

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why pain from a heart attack is sometimes felt in the left arm?

Accepted Answer

The heart and left arm share the same dermatome, leading to referred pain.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about adaptation in sensory receptors is correct?

Accepted Answer

Rapidly adapting receptors stop generating action potentials quickly even if the stimulus persists.

Question 10

A patient is unable to feel vibration on their skin but can still sense stretch and movement. Which receptor is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscle

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the function of proprioceptors?

Accepted Answer

They sense movement and position of joints and muscles, contributing to kinesthetic sense.

Question 12

Which of the following would most likely result from damage to the somatosensory cortex?

Accepted Answer

Loss of conscious perception of touch, pain, and temperature

Question 13

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the difference between sensation and perception?

Accepted Answer

Sensation is the detection of a stimulus, while perception is the conscious awareness and interpretation of that stimulus.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why the fingertips are more sensitive to touch than the forearm?

Accepted Answer

The fingertips have more sensory neurons with smaller receptive fields, allowing for greater touch discrimination.

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct formula for calculating the two-point discrimination threshold?

Accepted Answer

$	ext{Threshold} = 	ext{Minimum distance at which two points are perceived as separate}$

Sensation, Perception, and Sensory Pathways in Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards