Sensory receptors and the Pacinian corpuscle

Overview

How a receptor converts one form of energy into another, and the lamellae, stretch-mediated sodium channels and generator potential of a Pacinian corpuscle.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is the function of sensory receptors in terms of energy conversion?

   Model answer

   Sensory receptors are transducers that convert different types of stimuli (e.g. pressure, light, chemicals) into nerve impulses (electrical signals).

2. 2

   What type of receptor is the Pacinian corpuscle, and what stimuli does it detect?

   Model answer

   The Pacinian corpuscle is a mechanoreceptor that detects pressure and vibration.

3. 3

   Describe the structure of a Pacinian corpuscle.

   Model answer

   It consists of a sensory nerve ending surrounded by layers of connective tissue called lamellae, which are separated by gel.

4. 4

   What is the first event that occurs when a Pacinian corpuscle is stimulated?

   Model answer

   Pressure is applied to the corpuscle.

5. 5

   What happens to the lamellae when pressure is applied to a Pacinian corpuscle?

   Model answer

   The lamellae deform and press on the sensory nerve ending.

6. 6

   What type of ion channels open when the lamellae press on the nerve ending in a Pacinian corpuscle?

   Model answer

   Stretch-mediated sodium channels open.

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