Final answer:
The fundamental frequency of the ear canal can be calculated using the formula f = (2n-1)v / 4L, where n is the harmonic number, v is the speed of sound, and L is the length of the tube. By substituting the given values and calculating, the first overtone in the ear canal is approximately 3433 Hz, which falls within the audible range. Hence, the ear is sensitive to such a frequency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fundamental frequency of a closed tube can be determined using the formula:
f = (2n-1)v / 4L
Where f is the fundamental frequency, n is the harmonic number (in this case, n=1 for the fundamental frequency), v is the speed of sound, and L is the length of the tube.
Substituting the given values, we get:
f = (2*1-1)*v / (4*2.40cm)
f = v / 9.60 cm
Plugging in the speed of sound at 37.0°C, which is approximately 330.4 m/s, we can calculate the fundamental frequency:
f = (330.4 m/s) / (9.60 cm)
f ≈ 3433 Hz
The ear is particularly sensitive to frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, so a fundamental frequency of 3433 Hz falls within this range and would be audible to the ear. Therefore, the ear is sensitive to such a frequency.