PSYC 1000 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5: Sensory Neuron, Neural Adaptation, Sensory System
Document Summary
Module 24: common features of sensation and perception. Sensation and perception occur differently in each of our sensory modalities: senses also share some common processes. Each of the senses has a set of sensory receptor cells: sensory receptor cells: specialized cells that convert a specific form of environmental stimuli into neural impulses. The form of communication used in our brains and nervous systems. Sensory transduction: the process of converting a specific form of environmental stimuli into neural impulses. Absolute threshold: the minimal stimulus necessary for detection by an individual: varies from person to person. Is surprisingly small: anything that falls below this level goes unnoticed. Difference threshold or just noticeable difference: the minimal difference between two stimuli necessary for detection of a difference between the two: also, very small when sensory systems are working good. May limit our abilities but are also an asset: life would be very distracting if you noticed every little thing.