Question

High frequency sound waves stimulates the basilar membrane:

• A. At the base of the cochlea
• B. At the apex of the cochlea
• C. All part of the cochlea
• D. Only at the middle of the cochlea

Answer 1

Answer:

A. At the base of the cochlea

• Once the vibrations cause the fluid inside the cochlea to ripple, a traveling wave forms along the basilar membrane.

• Hair cells—sensory cells sitting on top of the basilar membrane—ride the wave.

• Hair cells near the wide end of the snail-shaped cochlea detect higher-pitched sounds, such as an infant crying.