4 Explain how energy from a sound wave compression wave in a

4. Explain how energy from a sound wave (compression wave in air) is turned into an action potential in the cochlear nerve.

Solution

Cochlea is the curled structure found in the inner ear. Cochlea contains the membranes and hair cells that transduce sound waves into action potentias. Cochlear has sensory neurons. Its Central part detects the sound. Firstly sound waves strike the tympanic membrane and converts in to vibrations, then the wave energy of sound is transferred to the 3 bones of the middle ear and second transduction takes place within the cochlea then fluid waves moves towards the cochlear duct and release neurotransmitter, this is known as third transduction. Action potential genrated through these neurotransmitter that travel through the cochlear nerve to the brain, this is known as fourth transduction. By this energy from a sound wave (compression wave in air) is turned into an action potential in the cochlear nerve, into tympanic duct and is dissipated back into the middle ear at the round window.