Olfactory cells and taste buds are normally stimulated by ________.
A) substances in solution
B) the movement of otoliths
C) movement of a cupula
D) stretching of the receptor cells

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Olfactory cells in the nose and taste buds on the tongue are both stimulated by substances in solution. Olafactory cells detect odor molecules dissolved in the air, while taste buds detect flavor molecules dissolved in saliva. Option B refers to the movement of small calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear, which helps detect changes in head position and movement, but does not directly stimulate olfactory or taste receptors. Option C refers to the bending of hair cells in the inner ear, which also helps detect head movement and balance, but is unrelated to olfactory or taste receptors. Option D refers to the stretching of mechanoreceptors, which can detect pressure and distention, but again is not directly involved in olfactory or taste perception.

Olfactory Cells and Taste Buds Are Normally Stimulated by ________