If a 15,000-Hz tone enters the inner ear, the peak of the traveling wave in the basilar membrane will be:
A) halfway between the apex and the base.
B) closer to the apex.
C) closer to the base.
D) closer to the pinna.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The basilar membrane in the cochlea of the inner ear is tonotopically organized, meaning different frequencies of sound waves peak at different locations along the membrane. High frequencies, such as a 15,000-Hz tone, cause a peak closer to the base of the cochlea, near the oval window, where the basilar membrane is narrower and stiffer.

If a 15,000-Hz Tone Enters the Inner Ear, the Peak