Which of the following best describes nociceptors?

• A. Sensory receptors that detect painful or damaging stimuli
• B. Cells responsible for producing antibodies
• C. Neurons that transmit signals to muscles for movement
• D. Receptors involved in detecting light for vision

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'nociceptors': Nociceptors are specialized sensory receptors in the nervous system that detect harmful or potentially damaging stimuli, such as extreme heat, cold, or mechanical injury. They are responsible for the sensation of pain.
2. Eliminate the incorrect options: Review the other options provided in the question. For example, 'Cells responsible for producing antibodies' refers to B cells in the immune system, not nociceptors.
3. Analyze the option 'Neurons that transmit signals to muscles for movement': This describes motor neurons, which are responsible for voluntary and involuntary muscle movements, not nociceptors.
4. Evaluate the option 'Receptors involved in detecting light for vision': These are photoreceptors, such as rods and cones in the retina, which are unrelated to nociceptors.
5. Select the correct answer: Based on the process of elimination and understanding of nociceptors, the correct description is 'Sensory receptors that detect painful or damaging stimuli.'