Final answer:
The patches of sensory epithelium within the utricle and saccule are called maculae. They contain hair cells, support cells, and an otolithic membrane with calcium carbonate crystals. The movement of the otolithic membrane in response to head movements causes bending of the hair cells and the generation of depolarization or hyperpolarization signals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patches of sensory epithelium within the utricle and saccule are called maculae. The maculae are composed of hair cells surrounded by support cells, and they contain calcium carbonate crystals embedded in a gelatinous substance called the otolithic membrane. When the head moves, the otolithic membrane slides over the maculae, causing bending of the stereocilia of the hair cells and the depolarization or hyperpolarization of the cells.