Difference Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors
The below table lists tonic vs phasic receptors:
Characteristics |
Tonic Receptors |
Phasic Receptors |
---|---|---|
Adaptation |
Slow adaptation: Continue responding to the sustained stimuli. |
Rapid adaptation: Stop responding to the sustained stimuli. |
Responsiveness |
Continuously respond to the stimuli. |
Respond primarily to the changes in stimuli. |
Duration |
Provide information about the duration of the stimuli. |
Provide information about the intensity of the stimuli. |
Sensitivity |
High sensitivity to stimulus intensity. |
High sensitivity to changes in stimulus. |
Function |
Maintain constant awareness of stimuli. |
Detect changes or new stimuli. |
Examples |
Merkel cells and Ruffini corpuscles. |
Pacinian corpuscles and Meissner’s corpuscles. |
Difference Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors
The difference between tonic and phasic receptors lies in their response patterns. The tonic and phasic receptors are two types of sensory receptors that respond to various stimuli. Tonic receptors maintain a constant response to stimuli whereas phasic receptors only respond to changes in stimuli. In this article, we will look into the differences between tonic and phasic receptors and some of the shared similarities as well.
Table of Content
- What are Tonic Receptors?
- What are Phasic Receptors?
- Difference Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors
- Similarities Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors
- Conclusion – Difference Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors
- Other Related Difference Between Articles
- FAQs on Difference Between Tonic and Phasic Receptors