Phasic receptors are rapidly adapting receptors. They will respond quickly to stimuli but stop responding upon continuous stimulation. Therefore, action potential frequency decreases during prolonged stimulation. This class of receptor conveys information about the changes to the stimulus such as intensity.

What is meant by a phasic receptor?

Phasic receptors are rapidly adapting and signal temporal changes in the stimulus. Phasic receptors are usually not very good at signaling stimulus intensity. They are good at detecting rapid changes such as stimulus onset, movement, and termination of a stimulus event.

What's the difference between tonic and phasic receptors?

Phasic receptors adapt rapidly and inform, therefore, about the rate of change of a stimulus. Tonic receptors adapt slowly and inform about the presence and strength of a stimulus.