Sensory receptor

The nervous system allows the body to receive information from both its surroundings and its internal conditions. It uses specialised cells called neurones, which carry electrical impulses. These signals allow information to travel rapidly between sensory receptors, coordinating centres and effectors.

A sensory receptor is a cell or group of cells that detects a particular type of change. Examples include receptors that detect light, touch, temperature or chemicals in food. When an appropriate stimulus affects a receptor, the receptor initiates information in the form of an electrical impulse in a sensory neuron.