A complex tone composed of a 440 Hz tone, an 880 Hz tone, and a 1320 HZ tone is presented. Which part of the basilar membrane will respond
A) the apex
B) the base
C) one intermediate area
D) the three different areas characteristic of each individual component

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Each of the three different frequencies in the complex tone will cause a characteristic "place" on the basilar membrane to vibrate, resulting in stimulation of the corresponding auditory nerve fibers. Therefore, the response will occur in three different areas on the basilar membrane, corresponding to each individual component of the complex tone.

A Complex Tone Composed of a 440 Hz Tone, an 880