what are the receptors that detect heat and cold called?
In this lesson, we'll discuss how the skin detects changes in temperature through the use of specialized receptors known as thermoreceptors. Thermoreceptors and Temperature. Thermoreceptors are specialized nerve cells that are able to detect differences in temperature. Temperature is a relative measure of heat present in the environment. Thermoreceptors are able to detect heat and cold and are found throughout the skin in order to allow sensory reception throughout the body. The location and number of thermoreceptors will determine the sensitivity of the skin to temperature changes.