Which type of receptors are activated by mechanical stimuli?

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Prepare for the UCF Biological Principles Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed on your exam!

The choice of mechanoreceptors is correct because these receptors are specifically designed to respond to mechanical stimuli such as pressure, vibration, and touch. They are found throughout the body and play a critical role in sensing changes in physical pressure or distortion in the environment, which is essential for functions like proprioception (awareness of body position), touch, hearing (in the case of hair cells in the inner ear), and balance.

Chemoreceptors, on the other hand, are activated by chemicals and are responsible for the sensation of taste and smell. Thermoreceptors are sensitive to changes in temperature, allowing organisms to detect heat and cold, while photoreceptors are specialized for light detection and are primarily involved in vision. Each receptor type has its distinct function and sensitivity to different types of stimuli, highlighting the importance of mechanoreceptors in responding to mechanical forces.