Question

Which of the following senses is affected if the tectorial membrane is removed from human? (a) Balance (b) Hearing (c) Vision (d) Smell

Short answer

(b) Hearing

Step-by-step solution

Understand the role of the tectorial membrane

The tectorial membrane is a structure in the cochlea of the inner ear. The cochlea is responsible for hearing, therefore the tectorial membrane plays a role within the human auditory system.

Understand the outcome of removal

Once we understand the function of the tectorial membrane, it's easier to conclude which faculty would be impaired if it were removed. As the tectorial membrane is involved in the process of translating vibrations into electric signals that the brain interprets as sound, the absence of this membrane would negatively impact hearing.

Select the correct answer

Based on the above understanding, the correct answer would be (b) Hearing. The removal of the tectorial membrane would most likely impair the sense of hearing.

Key concepts

Tectorial Membrane

The tectorial membrane is an integral part of the inner ear's anatomy, situated within the cochlea. It serves a crucial function in the process of hearing. The membrane is a gelatinous structure that overlays the hair cells of the cochlea. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause vibrations that travel through the cochlea. These vibrations lead to movements of the hair cells and the tectorial membrane.
The interaction between the hair cells and the tectorial membrane is essential for the conversion of mechanical energy from sound waves into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound. In essence, the tectorial membrane acts as a facilitator in the auditory signal transduction process, making it indispensable for effective hearing.

• If the tectorial membrane is damaged or removed, the hair cells cannot function properly.
• The outcome is a significant disruption in the ability to hear.
• In short, the tectorial membrane is vital for maintaining proper auditory functions.

Cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped organ in the inner ear. It plays a pivotal role in our ability to hear. Resembling a tiny snail shell, the cochlea is filled with fluid and lined with thousands of sensitive hair cells. These hair cells are responsible for detecting sound vibrations and converting them into nerve signals.
When sound waves enter the ear, they travel through the ear canal, strike the eardrum, and cause it to vibrate. These vibrations are further transmitted through the ossicles, a set of small bones in the middle ear, and make their way into the cochlea.

• The fluids inside the cochlea then move in response to these vibrations.
• This movement triggers the hair cells to generate electrical signals.
• These signals travel via the auditory nerve to the brain, allowing us to perceive sound.

The cochlea is specifically structured to amplify sound vibrations and enhance our hearing ability. Its unique shape and fluid content allow it to differentiate sounds based on frequency, making it an extraordinary component of the auditory system.

Auditory System

The auditory system is an intricate network that enables us to process sound from the environment. It comprises several components, each with a distinct role in processing auditory information. This system extends from the outer ear through the inner ear, all the way to the brain.
As sound waves enter the ear, they are first collected by the pinna, the visible part of the ear. They then travel through the ear canal to the eardrum, causing it to vibrate. These vibrations are passed through the middle ear bones (malleus, incus, and stapes) and then enter the cochlea of the inner ear.
Within the cochlea, the sound vibrations cause movement in the cochlear fluids, stimulating the hair cells. These cells convert mechanical movements into electrical nerve impulses. The impulses are transmitted via the auditory nerve to the brain.

• The brain processes these signals, allowing us to recognize different sounds.
• The system is incredibly efficient, allowing for rapid sound processing.
• All these processes ensure we can interpret and respond to sound stimuli effectively.

The auditory system not only helps us perceive sound but also aids in balancing and orienting ourselves in our environment. Understanding how the auditory system works is key to appreciating the complexity of hearing.