Final answer:
Chemoreceptors detect metabolic byproducts and oxygen levels, influencing cardiovascular responses by adjusting blood flow, while mechanoreceptors like proprioreceptors change firing rates with activity to influence cardiovascular function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The activation of chemoreceptors and mechanoreceptors leads to different physiological responses. Chemoreceptors detect increased byproducts of metabolism, such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen ions, and lactic acid, as well as a fall in oxygen levels. These receptors, connected to the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, provide feedback to the cardiovascular centers, leading to the regulation of blood flow. During increased activity, there's an increase in cardiac output and constriction of peripheral vessels due to stimulation from rising carbon dioxide and hydrogen ion levels. Conversely, during rest, reduced levels of these substances stimulate the cardioinhibitor centers, resulting in decreased cardiac output and peripheral vasodilation.
Similarly, the firing rates of mechanoreceptors like proprioreceptors change with activity levels, affecting cardiovascular responses. The interplay between the cardiovascular and respiratory systems is crucial for maintaining oxygen supply and removing carbon dioxide in response to metabolic demands.