Sound and Hearing Quiz

What is the outer part of the ear that you can see called?

• Cochlea

• Eardrum

• Auditory canal

• Pena

Answer explanation

The outer part of the ear that is visible is called the 'pinna' (often misspelled as 'pena'). It collects sound waves and directs them into the ear canal, distinguishing it from other parts like the cochlea and eardrum.

What is the function of the cochlea?

• To amplify sound

• To transduce sound vibrations to auditory signals

• To protect the inner ear

• To balance the body

Answer explanation

The cochlea's primary function is to transduce sound vibrations into auditory signals, allowing us to perceive sound. It does this through hair cells that convert mechanical energy into electrical signals for the brain.

What shape is the cochlea compared to?

• A trumpet

• A garden pea

• A snail

• A dime

Answer explanation

The cochlea is often compared to a snail due to its spiral shape and structure. This resemblance highlights its unique design, which is crucial for hearing, as it processes sound waves in a similar way to how a snail's shell spirals.

What is the role of the hair bundles on top of the hair cells?

• To amplify sound

• To create sound waves

• To turn movements into electrical signals

• To protect the cochlea

Answer explanation

The hair bundles on top of hair cells are crucial for converting mechanical movements caused by sound waves into electrical signals, which the brain interprets as sound. This makes 'to turn movements into electrical signals' the correct choice.

What is the membrane that vibrates in the ear called?

• Tympanic membrane

• Basilar membrane

• Eardrum

• Cochlea

Answer explanation

The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, vibrates in response to sound waves, playing a crucial role in hearing. While 'tympanic membrane' is technically correct, 'eardrum' is the more commonly used term.

What is the function of the auditory nerve?

• To amplify sound

• To send electrical signals to the brain

• To protect the inner ear

• To balance the body

Answer explanation

The auditory nerve's primary function is to send electrical signals generated by sound waves from the inner ear to the brain, allowing us to perceive sound. Thus, the correct answer is 'To send electrical signals to the brain'.

What is the role of the outer ear?

• To transduce sound

• To catch sound waves

• To protect the inner ear

• To balance the body

Answer explanation

The outer ear's primary role is to catch sound waves and funnel them into the ear canal. This process is essential for hearing, making 'to catch sound waves' the correct answer.

What does the frequency theory of hearing suggest?

• The rate of nerve impulses matches the frequency of a tone.

• Sound frequencies stimulate specific places on the basilar membrane.

• Sound localization is based on the timing difference between ears.

• Hearing loss is caused by damage to hair cells.

Answer explanation

The frequency theory of hearing posits that the rate of nerve impulses in the auditory nerve corresponds to the frequency of a tone, explaining how we perceive different pitches.

What is the place theory of hearing?

• Sound frequencies stimulate specific places on the basilar membrane.

• The rate of nerve impulses matches the frequency of a tone.

• Sound localization is based on the timing difference between ears.

• Hearing loss is caused by damage to hair cells.

Answer explanation

The place theory of hearing posits that different sound frequencies activate specific locations on the basilar membrane in the cochlea, allowing us to perceive various pitches.

What can cause tinnitus?

• Any sound loud enough to produce ringing in the ears.

• Damage to the cochlea's receptor cells.

• Damage to the auditory nerve.

• Damage to the mechanical system.

Answer explanation

Tinnitus can be caused by any sound that is loud enough to produce ringing in the ears. This includes exposure to loud noises, which can lead to temporary or permanent ringing sensations.