You need the Flash Player version 8.0.0.0 or higher and a JavaScript enabled browser to view this site

Human Biology: The Five Senses

Related Article: Learn more about the body's systems.

We use our eyes, ears, nose, mouth and skin to pick up information from the world with receptors that translate the information into electrical and chemical signals that our brains can interpret.
Related Videos

Related Ad Categories

Upload Your Video/Register

browse videos in
body systems

HowStuffWorks.com Videos: Body Systems MRSS Feed

Sort by:

How Sunburns Work

How Sunburns Work (0:58)

Sunburns can be painful, and that's why physicians recommend using sunscreen to prevent sunburn from overexposure to the UV radiation of the sun. See how sunburn and sunscreen work in this HowStuffWorks video.

Understanding the Brain: Development

Understanding the Brain: Development (0:57)

We have known for decades that genes play a part in the brain's function, but research also shows a baby's environment plays just as large a role. Brought to you by the Discovery Channel.

Correcting vision problems during sleep

Correcting vision problems during sleep (1:57)

A team of researchers in Ohio State's College of Optometry are developing a new system called corneal refractive therapy, which works to correct vision problems during sleep, leaving vision greatly improved when patients... More »

Al Seckel on How The Brain Works

Al Seckel on How The Brain Works (16:30)

Watch this video about how the brain works on HowStuffWorks. Cognitive Neuroscientist Al Seckel uses visual illusions to explain why our brains respond differently to varying images. Learn about the brain's visual perceptions in this video from TED.

Elderly Can See Longer with NeoVista

Elderly Can See Longer with NeoVista (4:04)

Watch this video about demacular degeneration and the elderly on HowStuffWorks. The United States' aging population will grow to more than 50 million people by 2020, in which case diseases like macular degeneration will become an epidemic. See how... More »

recently added

How It's Made: Blood Products

How It's Made: Blood Products (3:01)

Have you ever wondered what becomes of donated blood? This clip from The Science Channel's "How It's Made" follows the blood trail from initial blood testing to creation of the final products.

Time Warp: Tongue Trap

Time Warp: Tongue Trap (0:16)

How long does it take for pain to travel from tongue to brain? Roughly 90 milliseconds, as shown by The Freak Show Deluxe's Thomas Nealeigh.

Brink: Valentine's Brain Scan

Brink: Valentine's Brain Scan (4:14)

Don't believe in love at first sight? We'll show you how new research into brain waves proves that love really can last a lifetime. Learn more in this clip from the Science Channel's "Brink."

Understanding the Brain: Chemistry and Love

Understanding the Brain: Chemistry and Love (2:54)

On Discovery Channel's series,"Understanding the Amazing Brain," learn how brain chemistry causes love.

Need to Know on the Go: Brain and Sex

Need to Know on the Go: Brain and Sex (1:10)

What is sexy? The brain's "pleasure center," may help us find out. Learn more in this video from Science Channel's "Need to Know on the Go."

Body Invaders: What is the Back

Body Invaders: What is the Back (1:52)

The spine is an amazing piece of architecture that is often neglected until we get a backache. Learn more about the spine in this video from Discovery Health's "Body Invaders."

Cleveland Clinic 2008: LDL Cholesterol

Cleveland Clinic 2008: LDL Cholesterol (1:40)

A new Belgian study indicates that people with higher levels of LDL are at a greater risk of developing serious heart problems. Take a look at this Discovery Health clip to learn more about LDL cholesterol.

The Brain: Meditation and Pain Control

The Brain: Meditation and Pain Control (1:43)

Shaolin Monks are renowned for their incredible abilities. Their mastery of the art of meditation has enabled them to overcome debilitating pain. Check out this clip to learn how meditation changes the brain's activity and perception of stimuli.

Why Tell Me Why: Different Blood Types

Why Tell Me Why: Different Blood Types (2:06)

Have you ever wondered why people have different blood types? Watch this video to find out.

How the Brain Works: The Hypothalamus

How the Brain Works: The Hypothalamus (2:52)

Deep within the brain humans carry a relic of evolution called the hypothalamus, which prepares the body for starvation situations by enhancing performance and conserving energy. Check out this clip to learn how a lost caver was saved by his... More »