Question

Place the steps in the production of an auditory sensation in order from start to finish. Information concerning the frequency and intensity of stimulation is relayed to the CNS over the cochlear branch of N VIII. The pressure waves distort the basilar membrane on their way to the round window of the tympanic duct. Sound waves arrive at the tympanic membrane. Movement of the stapes at the oval window establishes pressure waves in the perilymph of the vestibular duct. Vibration of the basilar membrane causes vibration of hair cells against the tectorial membrane, resulting in hair cell stimulation and neurotransmitter release. Movement of the tympanic membrane causes displacement of the auditory ossicles.

Answer 1

Answer:

• Sound waves arrive at the tympanic membrane
• Movement of the tympanic membrane causes displacement of the auditory ossicles.
• Movement of the stapes at the oval window establishes pressure waves in the perilymph of the vestibular duct.
• The pressure waves distort the basilar membrane on their way to the round window of the tympanic duct.
• Vibration of the basilar membrane causes vibration of hair cells against the tectorial membrane, resulting in hair cell stimulation and neurotransmitter release.
• Information concerning the frequency and intensity of stimulation is relayed to the CNS over the cochlear branch of CN VIII.

Explanation:

Sound waves travel from the outer ear to the tympanic membrane. This makes the tympanic membrane move, thereby displacing the auditory ossicles.  The displacement of the auditory ossicles creates pressure waves in the cochlea. This in turn results in the vibration of the basilar membrane.

The vibration of the basilar membrane starts a chain of reactions that end in the characteristics of the sound waves being relayed to the cochlear branch of the Cranial Nerve 8