Final answer:
The utricle and saccule detect linear acceleration like gravity, and the semicircular canals detect angular acceleration associated with rotational movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inner ear consists of complex structures that are involved in detecting both linear and angular acceleration. The organs responsible for these functions are the utricle, saccule, and the three semicircular canals. For linear acceleration, such as gravity affecting a tilting head or the head moving in a straight line, the utricle and saccule are the key responders. Within these two structures, hair cells are embedded below a gelatinous layer containing calcium carbonate crystals. The shifting of these crystals due to movement bends the hair cells, sending signals to the brain concerning linear acceleration.
Meanwhile, angular acceleration from rotations, such as turning the head or tilting, is detected by the semicircular canals. These fluid-filled canals contain hair cells at their bases, which project into a gelatinous structure called the cupula. When the head rotates, the fluid movement within the canals shifts the cupula, bending the hair cells, and thus generating signals that inform the brain of angular acceleration and deceleration.