Question

what is the function of the sensory system

Answer 1

The sensory system is part of the nervous system that is responsible for processing sensory information to the brain.It consists of sensory receptors that detect and encode signals and neural pathways that transmit signals to the central nervous system.There are 5 classic senses (vision,touch,hearing,taste and smell);each of which has a corresponding cortical area in the brain referred to as sensory cortex.

The various functions of the sensory system include-

• Tactile function-receptors are located on the skin and relay information about the environment and object qualities(touch,pressure,heat,cold,pain) to the brain.
• Vestibular function-This fuction is related to balance and receptors are located in the inner ear.Provides information about our body in relation to its surroundings.Identifies the speed and direction of movement.
• Proprioception- Is activated by muscle contractions and movement and gives information about the position of a certain body part in relation to the rest of the body.
• Visual function-Stimulated by light on the retina of the eye.Gives information about the surroundings and helps define boundaries as we through space.
• Auditory function- Stimulated by air/sound waves and gives information about the sounds around us.
• Gustatory function-Provides information about different types of taste(sweet,sour,spicy,bitter,salty) through chemical receptors on the tongue.
• Olfactory function-Provides information about different types of smell through chemical receptors in the nose.It is closely associated with the gustatory function. The sensory system helps the human body obtain and understand information from the surrounding environment.