Electrolysis Practice Exam

What is the primary function of sensory nerves in the skin?

1. Regulate temperature

2. Respond to light

3. Respond to touch

4. Control muscle movement

The correct answer is: Respond to touch

The primary function of sensory nerves in the skin is to respond to touch. These nerve endings are specialized to detect different types of stimuli, such as pressure, vibration, and texture, which are crucial for perceiving the sense of touch. This sensitivity allows the body to interact with the environment effectively and is essential for functions such as distinguishing between different surfaces and determining the shape and size of objects. While regulating temperature, responding to light, and controlling muscle movement are important functions within the body, these tasks involve different types of cells or systems. For instance, temperature regulation involves thermoreceptors and the autonomic nervous system, responding to light pertains to photoreceptors in the eyes, and muscle movement is controlled by motor nerves and the neuromuscular system. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific role of sensory nerves in facilitating the sense of touch within the skin.