Which of the following is an explanation of why sensory adaptation occurs?

• A. Sensory receptors become less responsive to unchanging stimuli over time, allowing the brain to focus on new or changing information.
• B. Sensory adaptation happens because the body needs to conserve energy by ignoring all sensory input.
• C. Sensory adaptation occurs because the brain increases its response to constant stimuli to enhance perception.
• D. Sensory adaptation is caused by the complete shutdown of sensory neurons in response to any stimulus.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of sensory adaptation: it refers to the process by which sensory receptors become less sensitive to constant or unchanging stimuli over time.
2. Recognize that sensory adaptation allows the nervous system to conserve resources and focus attention on new or changing stimuli, which are often more important for survival and behavior.
3. Evaluate the given options by comparing them to the definition: the correct explanation should mention decreased responsiveness of sensory receptors to unchanging stimuli.
4. Eliminate incorrect options that suggest increased response to constant stimuli, complete shutdown of sensory neurons, or ignoring all sensory input without discrimination.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is that sensory receptors become less responsive to unchanging stimuli over time, enabling the brain to prioritize new or changing information.