Module 1 The Nervous System

1.1.6 page 5

Try This

To ensure that you understand the mechanisms of the inner ear involved in hearing, complete the drag-and-drop activity below. If you have any questions about the inner ear ask your instructor.

Self-Check

SC. The following self check will help you review the concepts of the outer, the middle, and the inner ear. Consult with your instructor if you were not able to give complete answers. Store your answers in your course folder.

1. Imagine that you are a sound wave. In order, describe the structures of the ear that you would encounter, starting with the outer ear and finishing with the Organ of Corti.

2. What happens to the energy of sound waves, which travel through air, once they reach the tympanum?

3. How is the surrounding medium of the inner ear different from that of the middle ear? What has to happen to the vibrations in the middle ear in order to accommodate this difference?

4. What is the role of the hair cells located in the organ of Corti?

5. Nerve impulses initiated in the organ of Corti are sent to which part of the brain?

  Self-Check

Inquiry into Biology (Whitby, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2007), 420, fig. 12.20. Reproduced by permission.

1. Which three parts of the ear are involved in amplifying sound waves?
2. The initiation of nerve impulses occurs in which structure?
3. Which structure first directs sound waves into the ear?
4. Which structure aids in the equalization of pressure between the outer and inner ear?
5. Which structure is most affected if pressure is not equalized?
6. Where is the organ of Corti located?
7. Middle ear infections affect which structure?
8. In the ear, which structure is considered analogical to the optic nerve in the eye?
9. Where are the wax glands located?
10. Which structure causes the ossicles to vibrate?