Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which of the following nerve endings would detect changes in temperature?

1. Mechanoreceptors

2. Photoreceptors

3. Thermoreceptors

4. Pain receptors

The correct answer is: Thermoreceptors

Thermoreceptors are specialized nerve endings that are specifically designed to detect changes in temperature. They are located in the skin and other tissues and respond to thermal stimuli, allowing the body to sense heat and cold. This sensitivity is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, as it enables us to react to environmental temperature changes, thereby protecting the body from potential harm due to extreme temperatures. Mechanoreceptors, on the other hand, are responsible for sensing mechanical changes such as pressure, vibration, and stretching. Photoreceptors are specifically designed to respond to light and are essential for vision. Pain receptors, also known as nociceptors, detect harmful stimuli that can cause pain, such as extreme heat or cold, but they do not serve the primary function of detecting temperature changes themselves. Understanding the distinct functions of these different types of receptors illustrates why thermoreceptors are uniquely suited to detect temperature variations.