The final step (within the inner ear) that is required to convert vibrations into sound sensations is movement of the
A)hair cells.
B)tympanic membrane.
C)pinna.
D)ossicles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hair cells, located in the cochlea of the inner ear, are responsible for converting the mechanical vibrations of sound waves into electrical signals that can be transmitted to the brain. This process, called mechanotransduction, occurs when the hair cells are displaced by the movement of fluid within the cochlea. Therefore, the movement of hair cells is the final step required to convert vibrations into sound sensations. The other options listed (B, C, and D) are all involved in the transmission of sound waves through the ear, but none of them are directly responsible for the conversion of mechanical energy into neural signals.

The Final Step (Within the Inner Ear) That Is Required