Which of the following statements best captures the relative adequacy of the frequency and place theories as accounts of sound perception?
A) Neither frequency theory nor place theory offer an adequate account of sound perception.
B) Place theory seems a better theory of sound perception than does frequency theory.
C) Frequency theory seems a better theory of sound perception than does place theory.
D) Both frequency theory and place theory offer adequate accounts of sound perception.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Place theory is generally considered to be a more accurate account of sound perception than frequency theory. This is because place theory takes into account the fact that different frequencies of sound are detected by different parts of the basilar membrane in the inner ear. This allows for a more precise representation of the frequency of a sound than frequency theory, which simply assumes that the frequency of a sound is encoded by the rate of firing of auditory nerve fibers.

Which of the Following Statements Best Captures the Relative Adequacy