Which sensory modality responds to the broadest range of molecules?
A)TRP channels
B)Taste
C)Smell
D)Vision
E)Touch

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Smell, also known as olfaction, is the sensory modality that responds to the broadest range of molecules. Olfactory receptor neurons in the nasal cavity are able to detect thousands of different odorants, ranging from small molecules like gases and volatiles to larger molecules like proteins and peptides. In contrast, taste receptors on the tongue are only able to detect five basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, umami), and vision responds to a narrow range of electromagnetic radiation. While TRP channels and touch can respond to a variety of stimuli, they do not have as broad a range as olfaction.

Which Sensory Modality Responds to the Broadest Range of Molecules