According to place theory, what structure in the human ear moves in different locations in response to different sound frequencies?
A) the ossicles
B) the eardrum
C) the oval window
D) the basilar membrane

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Place theory suggests that different frequencies of sound waves cause different parts of the basilar membrane (located in the cochlea of the inner ear) to vibrate. The location of maximum vibration corresponds to the pitch of the sound. Therefore, the basilar membrane moves in different locations in response to different sound frequencies. The other structures listed do not play a direct role in the processing of sound frequency according to place theory.

According to Place Theory, What Structure in the Human Ear