OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What is the primary function of sense organs?

1. Generate reflexes

2. Coordinate movements

3. Detect stimuli

4. Produce hormones

The correct answer is: Detect stimuli

The primary function of sense organs is to detect stimuli from the environment and relay that information to the brain for processing. Sense organs, such as the eyes, ears, nose, skin, and tongue, contain specialized sensory receptors that are sensitive to various forms of stimuli, including light, sound, chemical substances, temperature, and pressure. This detection allows organisms to perceive their surroundings, enabling them to respond appropriately to different situations, such as avoiding danger or finding food. The information gathered by these sense organs is crucial for survival, as it helps in understanding changes in the environment and making necessary adjustments. In contrast, generating reflexes involves the nervous system's ability to respond to stimuli without direct involvement from the brain, and coordinating movements pertains to muscle control rather than sensory detection. Producing hormones is a function of the endocrine system, which regulates various bodily functions but does not relate directly to sensory input.