What do electromagnetic receptors detect?

• A. Electromagnetic energy such as light, electricity, and magnetism
• B. Mechanical energy such as motion and force
• C. Thermal energy only
• D. Chemical energy in molecules

Answer: (A)

Electromagnetic receptors respond to energy in the electromagnetic spectrum. They detect light, electric fields, and magnetic fields, converting those energy changes into neural signals. For light, photoreceptors in the eye absorb photons, triggering chemical changes that alter membrane potential and send signals to the brain. Some receptors detect electric fields produced by nearby objects or organisms, while others in certain animals sense magnetic fields as well. This is distinct from receptors that detect mechanical energy (movement or force), thermal energy (heat), or chemical energy (mुणecules).