Which definition accurately describes sensation?

Sensation is defined as the process of receiving stimuli from the environment, which involves the activation of sensory receptors by external stimuli such as light, sound, and touch. This process includes detecting these stimuli and converting them into neural signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

This definition emphasizes the raw data that our senses collect before any cognitive processing or interpretation occurs. It highlights the initial steps in the perceptual process, where sensory organs respond to different forms of energy, such as light waves or sound waves, ultimately leading to our ability to perceive the surrounding world.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of sensation. For instance, the interpretation of sensory information refers to perception, not sensation, which involves cognitive processes after the initial detection. The ability to recognize shapes and colors also pertains to perception, as it goes beyond the mere detection of stimuli. Meanwhile, awareness of physical states relates more to bodily sensations and internal awareness, diverging from the external stimuli focus inherent to sensation.