Answer :
Final answer:
Sensitivity to heat can be higher in individuals with peripheral neuropathy, recent burn injuries, eczema, or compromised circulatory systems. In the case of an epidermal burn, free nerve endings are the receptor type most likely to be affected.
Explanation:
The individuals who would have a more than usual sensitivity to the local application of heat include those with peripheral neuropathy, a recent burn injury, skin conditions like eczema, or a compromised circulatory system. Each of these conditions affects the skin's ability to respond to thermal stress effectively, either because of nerve damage, existing injury, heightened sensitivity, or impaired blood flow.
Regarding the question on which receptor type would most likely be damaged if you were to burn your epidermis, the answer is (a) free nerve endings. These are the primary nociceptors found in the skin that respond to painful stimuli, such as heat, indicating potential damage from a sunburn or other thermal injury.
