What does the term "afference" refer to?

The term "afference" refers specifically to the process of signals being transmitted from sensory receptors to the central nervous system, effectively representing sensations that arise in the body, such as from muscles, skin, and other sense organs. This conversion of physical stimuli into neural signals allows the brain to process and interpret sensory information.

In the context of the question, this makes “sensations from muscles to the brain” the most accurate explanation of afferent pathways in the nervous system. This concept is fundamental in understanding how we perceive the world, as it highlights the role of sensory input in shaping our experiences and reactions. Afferent signals thus play a crucial role in coordinating responses to external stimuli and maintaining bodily awareness.