Final answer:
The perception of pitch depends on where the basilar membrane is stimulated, a concept known as place theory. This theory explains how humans can perceive a wide range of frequencies by the specific location of maximum membrane excitation. Place theory is complemented by temporal theory for frequencies up to 4000 Hz, beyond which only place cues are used.
Step-by-step explanation:
The idea that the perception of pitch depends on the place where the basilar membrane is stimulated is referred to as place theory. According to place theory, different parts of the basilar membrane are sensitive to different frequencies of sound. Low-frequency sounds stimulate the hair cells at the apex of the cochlea, while high-frequency sounds affect the base of the cochlea near the oval window.
Consistent with place theory, the basilar membrane and its hair cells are arranged in such a way that they are able to detect pitches based on where the maximum excitation of the membrane occurs. This arrangement allows humans to discern a wide range of frequencies, from as low as 20 Hz to as high as 20,000 Hz, much like how a piano can produce a full spectrum of notes.
Temporal theory complements place theory by explaining how the rate of action potentials contributes to the perception of pitch for frequencies up to about 4000 Hz. For higher frequencies, pitch perception relies exclusively on place cues.