Final answer:
Sensory receptors are categorized into free nerve endings, encapsulated endings, and specialized receptor cells, each modified to detect and respond to specific types of environmental stimuli.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the structure of general sensory receptors found in the human body and how they are classified based on their anatomical features and functions. Sensory receptors can be broadly categorized into three types: neurons with free nerve endings, which are nonencapsulated and embedded within the tissue sensitive to various stimuli such as pain, temperature, and light touch; neurons with encapsulated endings, where the nerve endings are wrapped in connective tissue to enhance sensitivity, primarily to pressure and touch; and specialized receptor cells, which are distinct cells designed to respond to a specific type of stimulus, like photoreceptors in the retina that detect light.
Each sensory receptor has a unique receptive field and is modified to detect certain types of environmental stimuli.