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Control systems: receptors, centres and effectors

Homeostasis and response • Homeostasis

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Receptors are specialized cells that detect specific changes (stimuli) in the environment.
  • Often found in sense organs or tissues monitoring internal conditions, each receptor type responds to particular stimuli such as light, sound, pressure, temperature, or chemical concentration.
  • When stimulated, receptors generate an electrical signal or release a chemical messenger that travels to a coordination centre.

Flashcards

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What limits receptor effectiveness?

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Receptor effectiveness is determined by sensitivity, density, and threshold; factors such as damage, adaptation, or a low number of receptors reduce detection capability.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Receptors detect only specific stimuli; their type and distribution affect sensitivity.

Coordination centres integrate receptor input and select between electrical or hormonal responses.

Effectors, either muscles or glands, act to restore normal conditions by movement or secretion.

Nervous signals are rapid and short-lived; hormonal signals are slower but longer-lasting.

Typical control pathway: stimulus → receptor → coordinator → effector → response.

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