How is the intensity of a stimulus encoded as information transmitted to the central nervous system?

The intensity of a stimulus is encoded by the frequency of action potentials generated by sensory neurons. A stronger stimulus leads to a higher firing rate of these neurons, which sends more frequent signals to the central nervous system. Additionally, different neurons may have varying thresholds for activation, allowing the nervous system to discern between weak and strong stimuli based on which neurons are activated. This combination of frequency and recruitment of different sensory neurons helps the brain interpret the intensity of the stimulus.