(a) What is a receptor? (b) Describe the general features common to all receptors. (c)(i) Make a labelled diagram 8cm - 10cm long, to show the outer and mid...

(a) What is a receptor?

(b) Describe the general features common to all receptors.

(c)(i) Make a labelled diagram 8cm - 10cm long, to show the outer and middle ear only of human.
(ii) List three ways of caring for the ear.

Answer Details

(a) A receptor is a specialized structure or cell that responds to a specific stimulus or change in the environment and generates nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain for interpretation.

(b) The general features common to all receptors are that they are specialized structures or cells that are sensitive to a specific type of stimulus or energy, they convert the stimulus or energy into electrical signals or nerve impulses, and they transmit the nerve impulses to the brain or spinal cord for interpretation and response.

(c)(i) The labelled diagram of the outer and middle ear of a human is as follows:

(ii) Three ways of caring for the ear are:

1. Keep the ear clean and dry: It is important to keep the external ear clean and dry to prevent the growth of bacteria or fungi that can cause infections. The ear should be cleaned gently with a damp cloth, and cotton swabs should not be used as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal.
2. Protect the ear from loud noise: Exposure to loud noise can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear and lead to hearing loss. To protect the ear, one should avoid exposure to loud noise, wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, and keep the volume of personal music players low.
3. Seek medical attention if there are any problems: If there is any pain, discharge, or other problems with the ear, it is important to seek medical attention. An ear infection or other condition can be treated with medication, and early treatment can prevent complications and further damage to the ear.