What is the role of sensory nerves in the peripheral nervous system?

Prepare for the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4–8 Core Assessment. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Success awaits!

The role of sensory nerves in the peripheral nervous system is to transmit messages to the brain from external stimuli. These nerves are responsible for collecting information from the sensory organs and bodily receptors, such as skin, eyes, ears, and taste buds. When a sensory stimulus occurs, for example, touching something hot or seeing a bright light, sensory nerves carry this information through the spinal cord to the brain, where it is processed and interpreted. This transmission allows individuals to respond to their environment, ensuring that they can perceive and react appropriately to different stimuli.

The other choices do not accurately capture the function of sensory nerves. While messages from the brain to the body pertain to motor functions and coordination of movements, sensory nerves specifically deal with incoming information. The coordination of muscle movements involves motor nerves, not sensory ones. Regulating involuntary functions is typically the role of the autonomic nervous system, which operates independently of sensory input.

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