What effect do high frequency sounds tend to have on the ear?
A)displace the whole length of the basilar membrane with a maximum near the apex
B)move only the basal portion of the basilar membrane
C)move only the apex portion of the basilar membrane
D)move only the portion of the basilar membrane between the basal portion and the apex
E)only move the tectorial membrane

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High frequency sounds tend to move only the basal portion of the basilar membrane. This is because high frequencies have shorter wavelengths, which means that they cannot pass through the more floppy, wide portion of the basilar membrane that is located near the apex of the cochlea. Instead, they are more likely to affect the stiff, narrow portion near the base.

What Effect Do High Frequency Sounds Tend to Have on the Ear