Sensory fiber with least conduction velocity:September. 2005
**Core Concept**
Sensory fibers are classified based on their conduction velocity, diameter, and myelination. These fibers play a crucial role in transmitting sensory information from the periphery to the central nervous system. The conduction velocity of sensory fibers varies, with larger, myelinated fibers conducting signals faster than smaller, unmyelinated fibers.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is A. C-fiber, which has the least conduction velocity among the options. C-fibers are unmyelinated and have a smaller diameter compared to other sensory fibers. As a result, they conduct signals at a slower speed, typically ranging from 1-2 meters per second. This slow conduction velocity is due to the lack of myelination, which reduces the speed of signal transmission. C-fibers are responsible for transmitting pain, temperature, and some types of touch information.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Alpha fibers are large, myelinated fibers that conduct signals at a high speed, typically ranging from 80-120 meters per second. They are responsible for transmitting proprioceptive and vibratory information.
**Option C:** Beta fibers are also large, myelinated fibers that conduct signals at a high speed, typically ranging from 30-80 meters per second. They are responsible for transmitting touch and pressure information.
**Option D:** Gamma fibers are small, myelinated fibers that conduct signals at a moderate speed, typically ranging from 5-30 meters per second. They are responsible for transmitting muscle spindle information.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
C-fibers are involved in the transmission of pain information, which can be modulated by various factors, including emotional state, attention, and previous experiences. Understanding the properties of C-fibers is essential for clinicians to appreciate the complexities of pain perception and management.
**Correct Answer:**
β Correct Answer: **A. C- fiber**