Question

which of the following best describes the human skins multiple receptive fields that are found throughout the body?
a. clusters of sensory receptors in tiny bumps called papillae
b. areas of skin where stimuli must occur to activate receptors
c. sensitive locations in the skin most sensitive to light stimuli
d. sensory fields in the skin that respond to mechanical stimuli

please select the best answer from the choices provided

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

Define receptive fields in the somatosensory system

A receptive field is the specific region of space (or in this case, the surface of the skin) in which a stimulus must occur to trigger the firing of a particular sensory neuron.

Evaluate the given options

• Option A describes papillae, which are associated with taste buds on the tongue, not general skin receptive fields.
• Option B correctly defines a receptive field as the area of skin where a stimulus must occur to activate the associated sensory receptors.
• Option C refers to light sensitivity, which is a function of photoreceptors in the eye, not skin receptive fields.
• Option D is too narrow, as skin receptive fields can respond to thermal, chemical, or painful stimuli, not just mechanical ones.

Answer:

• A. clusters of sensory receptors in tiny bumps called papillae
• B. areas of skin where stimuli must occur to activate receptors (Correct answer)
• C. sensitive locations in the skin most sensitive to light stimuli
• D. sensory fields in the skin that respond to mechanical stimuli