Final answer:
The strength of a stimulus is encoded in the nervous system through the rate of action potentials generated and the number of receptors stimulated. An intense stimulus leads to a higher frequency of action potentials and can activate more receptors, which the CNS interprets as a stronger stimulus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Within the nervous system, coding for the strength of a stimulus is accomplished through the rate of action potentials and the number of receptors activated. The encoding of stimulus intensity is based on how sensory receptors respond to stimuli. A more intense stimulus will generate action potentials at a higher frequency, signaling a stronger sensory input to the brain. Conversely, a weaker stimulus results in a slower rate of action potential firing.
Moreover, the number of receptors that are activated by a stimulus also contributes to the perception of its intensity. An intense stimulus might activate a larger number of receptors, leading to a stronger sensation. As soon as sensory information is received by the central nervous system (CNS), integration and further processing begin, which help in deciphering the specific characteristics and strength of the stimulus.