Question

Whether a sound is interpreted by the brain as a higher or lower pitch is determined by the ________. a. position of the Eustachian (pharyngotympanic) tube b. the oval window and the round window c. the pressure changes on the basilar membrane d. anatomy of the basilar membrane

Answer 1

The pitch of a sound is determined by the pressure changes on the basilar membrane in the cochlea. This occurs as different areas of the membrane resonate with varying frequencies, which are then perceived as different pitches by the brain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Whether a sound is interpreted by the brain as a higher or lower pitch is determined by the pressure changes on the basilar membrane. The vibration of the sound waves causes fluid inside the cochlea to move, which causes pressure changes on the basilar membrane. Different areas of the basilar membrane resonate with different frequencies, which are interpreted as different pitches. For example, the base resonates with higher frequencies (higher pitch), and the apex resonates with lower frequencies (lower pitch).

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