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Multiple Choice
What type of sensory receptor is a hair cell?
A
Thermoreceptor
B
Mechanoreceptor
C
Chemoreceptor
D
Photoreceptor
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of hair cells: Hair cells are specialized sensory receptors found in the inner ear, particularly in the cochlea and vestibular system. They play a crucial role in detecting sound vibrations and head movements.
Identify the type of stimulus hair cells respond to: Hair cells respond to mechanical stimuli, such as sound waves and changes in head position, which cause physical movement of the hair-like structures on their surface.
Define mechanoreceptors: Mechanoreceptors are sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. They are responsible for detecting touch, pressure, vibration, and sound.
Compare with other receptor types: Thermoreceptors detect temperature changes, chemoreceptors respond to chemical stimuli, and photoreceptors are sensitive to light. Hair cells do not respond to these types of stimuli.
Conclude that hair cells are mechanoreceptors: Based on their function and the type of stimulus they respond to, hair cells are classified as mechanoreceptors because they detect mechanical changes in their environment.