Multiple Choice
More than one choice may apply.
Movement of which structure triggers bending of hairs of the hair cells in the spiral organ of Corti?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the key components involved in the process of hearing within the cochlea, specifically focusing on the spiral organ of Corti.
Understand that the spiral organ of Corti contains hair cells, which are sensory receptors crucial for converting sound vibrations into neural signals.
Recognize that the movement of certain structures within the cochlea can lead to the bending of the stereocilia (hairs) on these hair cells.
Consider the role of the tectorial membrane, a structure that lies above the hair cells in the organ of Corti, and how its movement relative to the basilar membrane can cause the bending of the hair cells.
Evaluate the options provided in the multiple-choice question to determine which structure's movement is directly responsible for triggering the bending of the hair cells' stereocilia.
Recommended similar problem, with video answer:
Verified Solution
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
4m
Play a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Spiral Organ of Corti
The Spiral Organ of Corti is a key structure within the cochlea of the inner ear, responsible for converting sound vibrations into neural signals. It contains hair cells that are essential for hearing, as they respond to fluid movements caused by sound waves. Understanding its anatomy and function is crucial for grasping how sound is processed in the auditory system.
Hair cells are specialized sensory cells located in the Spiral Organ of Corti. They have tiny hair-like projections called stereocilia that bend in response to fluid movement within the cochlea. This bending triggers the release of neurotransmitters, which send signals to the auditory nerve, ultimately leading to the perception of sound.
The Basilar Membrane is a flexible structure within the cochlea that supports the hair cells of the Spiral Organ of Corti. When sound waves enter the cochlea, they create pressure waves in the fluid, causing the Basilar Membrane to move. This movement is what triggers the bending of the hair cells, making it a critical component in the auditory transduction process.