Receptors that respond to changes in temperature are called?

• A. Photoreceptors
• B. Thermoreceptors
• C. Mechanoreceptors
• D. Chemoreceptors

Answer: (B)

Temperature changes are detected by thermoreceptors, a type of sensory receptor specifically sensitive to thermal stimuli. These receptors—located in the skin and in brain areas such as the hypothalamus—change their firing rate when warmth or coolness is present and relay this information to the nervous system to produce the sense of temperature and help regulate body heat. Photoreceptors detect light, mechanoreceptors respond to mechanical forces like touch and pressure, and chemoreceptors respond to chemical substances such as odors, tastes, or gas levels. Because this question asks for receptors that respond to changes in temperature, thermoreceptors are the right match.