The semicircular canals of the vestibular system would contribute the most to balance control during which of the following activities?
A)Standing and quickly turning the head to look at a person
B)Sitting in a chair reading a newspaper
C)Standing on a bus that suddenly accelerates forward
D)Standing on an elevator that suddenly accelerates downward

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The semicircular canals are responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head. In this scenario, standing and quickly turning the head to look at a person involves a rotational movement, thus making the semicircular canals the most important for balance control. Sitting and reading a newspaper, standing on a bus that suddenly accelerates forward, or standing on an elevator that suddenly accelerates downward do not involve rotational movements and therefore the semicircular canals are not as essential for balance control.

The Semicircular Canals of the Vestibular System Would Contribute the Most