Question 1

Which of the following best describes sensory transduction in a receptor cell?

Accepted Answer

Conversion of a stimulus into a graded potential

Question 2

A patient is unable to distinguish between hot and cold objects. Which type of receptor is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Thermoreceptors

Question 3

Which equation correctly relates the speed of sound $$v to $$its frequency $$f$$ and wavelength $$\lambda$$?

Accepted Answer

$$v = f 	imes \lambda$$

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a property that must be preserved during nervous system stimulus processing?

Accepted Answer

Shape

Question 5

A researcher stimulates a sensory neuron with increasing intensity. Which coding mechanism allows the neuron to transmit information about stimulus intensity?

Accepted Answer

Frequency coding (rate coding)

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why lateral inhibition improves localization of a stimulus?

Accepted Answer

It suppresses signals from neighboring neurons, sharpening contrast

Question 7

A patient presents with loss of pain sensation on the left side of the body below the neck. Which pathway is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Right ascending spinothalamic tract

Question 8

Which of the following statements about phasic receptors is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

They adapt rapidly and stop firing if the stimulus remains constant

Question 9

Which structure in the cochlea is responsible for transducing sound vibrations into electrical signals?

Accepted Answer

Organ of Corti

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of melanin in the retinal pigment epithelium?

Accepted Answer

It absorbs excess light to prevent scattering

Question 11

A person with myopia has difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. Which lens shape would correct this condition?

Accepted Answer

Concave lens

Question 12

Which of the following is the correct order of information flow in the retina?

Accepted Answer

Photoreceptors $$\rightarrow$$ bipolar cells $$\rightarrow$$ ganglion cells

Question 13

Which of the following best explains the concept of labeled line coding?

Accepted Answer

Each sensory pathway transmits a specific type of stimulus to a specific region of the brain

Question 14

Which of the following is the adequate stimulus for photoreceptors?

Accepted Answer

Light (electromagnetic radiation)

Question 15

Which equation correctly expresses the relationship between frequency $$f$$ and wavelength $$\lambda$$ for visible light, given the speed of light $$c$$?

Accepted Answer

$$c = f 	imes \lambda$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of the vestibular apparatus?

Accepted Answer

Detection of rotational and linear acceleration

Question 17

A patient has damage to the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) of the thalamus. Which sensory modality is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Vision

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the process of sensory adaptation in phasic receptors?

Accepted Answer

Receptors stop responding to a constant stimulus after a short period

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organ of Corti?

Accepted Answer

It contains hair cells that transduce mechanical vibrations into electrical signals

Question 20

Which of the following best explains how population coding allows for transmission of stimulus intensity?

Accepted Answer

By recruiting more sensory neurons to respond as stimulus intensity increases

Sensory Systems: Structure, Function, and Pathways in Human Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards