What does the term 'mechanoreceptor' refer to?

The term "mechanoreceptor" specifically refers to a type of sensory receptor that is sensitive to mechanical changes, including pressure, vibration, and stretch. These receptors play a crucial role in the sensory systems of many organisms, enabling them to detect physical stimuli that can be translated into signals for the nervous system.

Mechanoreceptors are found in various tissues throughout the body, such as the skin, where they help perceive touch and pressure; in the inner ear, where they are vital for hearing and balance; and in muscles and joints, where they contribute to proprioception, or the sense of body position. Thus, these receptors are integral for interacting with the physical environment, making option B the correct choice, as it accurately reflects the role of mechanoreceptors in responding to pressure changes and mechanical forces.

The other options refer to different types of sensory receptors: chemical changes are detected by chemoreceptors, thermal sensations by thermoreceptors, and light intensity by photoreceptors. Each of these receptors has specialized functions suited to their specific stimuli, which is why they do not align with the definition of mechanoreceptors.