Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of mechanoreceptors in the somatosensory system?

Accepted Answer

They respond to tactile stimuli such as touch and pressure.

Question 2

A patient reports feeling a constant deep pressure while sitting. Which type of sensory receptor is most likely responsible for this sensation?

Accepted Answer

Slowly adapting mechanoreceptors

Question 3

Which of the following is TRUE regarding Merkel cells?

Accepted Answer

They are epithelial cells that release neurotransmitters to excite a sensory neuron.

Question 4

What is the primary function of the dorsal root of the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

It transmits afferent sensory input toward the CNS.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains the difference between a receptor potential and a generator potential?

Accepted Answer

A receptor potential is a graded potential in a sensory receptor cell, while a generator potential is a graded potential in the sensory neuron itself.

Question 6

Which equation best represents the change in membrane potential during a depolarizing graded potential?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta V = V_{rest} + \Delta V_{depol}$$

Question 7

A rapidly adapting receptor responds to a stimulus by:

Accepted Answer

Firing action potentials at the onset and offset of the stimulus.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the pathway for conscious perception of a tactile stimulus?

Accepted Answer

Sensory receptor → 1st order neuron → spinal cord → 2nd order neuron → thalamus → 3rd order neuron → somatosensory cortex

Question 9

Which of the following is a characteristic of nociceptors?

Accepted Answer

They are slowly adapting receptors that respond to painful stimuli.

Question 10

During sensory transduction in a Merkel cell, which sequence of events occurs after a light touch stimulus?

Accepted Answer

Mechanically gated ion channels open → influx of Na+/Ca++ → depolarization → voltage-gated Ca++ channels open → glutamate release

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the trigger zone in a unipolar sensory neuron?

Accepted Answer

It is the region loaded with voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels where graded potentials can initiate an action potential.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why action potentials travel faster in myelinated axons?

Accepted Answer

Saltatory conduction allows action potentials to jump between nodes of Ranvier.

Question 13

Which of the following is TRUE about the decussation of sensory pathways?

Accepted Answer

The axon of the 2nd order neuron crosses to the contralateral side of the spinal cord or brainstem.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of proprioceptors?

Accepted Answer

They respond to postural changes and muscle/joint movements.

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct sequence for the neural integration of the somatosensory system?

Accepted Answer

Receptor level → Circuit level → Perceptual level

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the firing pattern of slowly adapting receptors?

Accepted Answer

They fire action potentials continuously while the stimulus is applied.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the physiological zero in thermoreception?

Accepted Answer

It is the temperature range where cold and warm thermoreceptors overlap and fire fewer action potentials.

Question 18

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the role of the thalamus in sensory pathways?

Accepted Answer

It is the site where the 2nd order neuron synapses with the 3rd order neuron.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the function of the primary motor cortex?

Accepted Answer

It plans and controls voluntary muscle contraction and relaxation.

Sensory and Motor Systems: Somatosensory Pathways and Neural Integration

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards