Professor Owusu told his class that the base of the basilar membrane is different from the apex, because the basilar membrane at its base is
A) wider and stiffer.
B) wider and more flexible.
C) narrower and stiffer.
D) narrower and more flexible.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The basilar membrane at its base is narrower and stiffer, which allows it to respond best to high-frequency sounds. This structural difference is crucial for the tonotopic organization of the cochlea, enabling different frequencies to be processed at different locations along the membrane.

Professor Owusu Told His Class That the Base of the Basilar