Final answer:
The mechanical response of the inner ear begins with sound waves causing vibrations in the eardrum, which are transmitted through the middle ear to the inner ear's cochlea. The cochlea's fluid transmits pressure waves that vibrate the tectorial membrane, stimulating hair cells that convert these mechanical stimuli into electrical signals sent to the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mechanical Response of the Inner Ear
The mechanical response of the inner ear is a sophisticated process that begins when sound waves enter the ear. These waves are pressure waves that cause the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to vibrate. The vibrations are transferred through the bones of the middle ear (ossicles) and to the cochlea of the inner ear, which is filled with fluid. The motion of the stapes bone against the oval window generates pressure waves within this fluid. These waves travel through the cochlea and cause the tectorial membrane to vibrate.
The inner ear contains specialized cells known as hair cells, which are equipped with cilia. The vibration of the tectorial membrane bends these cilia, stimulating the hair cells. This action converts the mechanical vibrations into electrical signals by activating the nerves in the organ of Corti. These electrical signals, or nerve impulses, are then transmitted to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.
The entire hearing mechanism is quite complex, involving the transformation of sound waves into mechanical vibrations and eventually into electrical signals that convey auditory information to our brain. This intricate process enables us to hear and interpret the vast array of sounds in our environment.