[Campbell Biology P.1162] How do hair cells in the Organ of Corti convert mechanical vibratio... | Practice Question

How do hair cells in the Organ of Corti convert mechanical vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain?

  • A: Vibration of the basilar membrane causes hair bundles to bend against the tectorial membrane, leading to a change in the hair cell's membrane potential.
  • B: The tectorial membrane directly vibrates, stimulating the hair cells to release neurotransmitters.
  • C: Fluid movement in the semicircular canals directly stimulates hair cells in the cochlea.
  • D: The oval window's vibration directly creates action potentials in the hair cells without intermediate steps.

Explanation

The process of sound transduction by hair cells involves the vibration of the basilar membrane, which causes the hair cells to move and their bundles of 'hairs' to bend against the relatively static tectorial membrane. This mechanical bending leads to a change in the membrane potential of the hair cell, initiating the electrical signal that will be sent to the brain via the auditory nerve.