Low frequencies travel farther along the basilar membrane than high frequencies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is because the basilar membrane is wider at the apex (which responds to low frequencies) and narrower towards the base (which responds to high frequencies). As a result, low frequencies cause a larger displacement of the basilar membrane which leads to activation of hair cells over a wider distance, allowing them to travel farther. High frequencies, on the other hand, only cause a displacement over a shorter distance and therefore do not travel as far along the basilar membrane.

Low Frequencies Travel Farther Along the Basilar Membrane Than High