A person able to hear only low-frequency sounds would probably have which of the following structural problems in the ear?
A) The tympanum is damaged because of chronic ear infections.
B) The basilar membrane is stiffened along its entire length.
C) The ear ossicles are abnormally thickened.
D) There is a loss of hair cell function in all but the apex of the basilar membrane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The basilar membrane in the cochlea of the ear is tonotopically organized, meaning different parts of the membrane vibrate in response to different frequencies of sound. The apex of the basilar membrane responds to low-frequency sounds. If a person can only hear low-frequency sounds, it suggests that there is a loss of hair cell function in all parts of the basilar membrane except for the apex, which aligns with choice D.

A Person Able to Hear Only Low-Frequency Sounds Would Probably