Anatomy & Physiology II - Special Senses Quiz
The special senses are the senses that have specialized organs devoted to them for vision hearing and balance also smell. We covered the anatomy of the organs tasked to these actions and their functions. Take the quiz below and get to learn more about the topic. All the best as you do!
- 1.
Olfactory glands
- A.
House the sense of smell.
- B.
Support the olfactory epithelium.
- C.
React to aromatic molecules.
- D.
Coat the olfactory epithelium with a pigmented mucus.
- E.
Group as olfactory bulbs.
Correct Answer
D. Coat the olfactory epithelium with a pigmented mucus.Explanation
The olfactory glands coat the olfactory epithelium with a pigmented mucus. This mucus helps to capture and dissolve aromatic molecules in the air, allowing them to be detected by the olfactory receptors in the epithelium. The pigmented mucus also helps to protect the olfactory epithelium from harmful substances and pathogens in the air.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The sensory neurons within the olfactory organ are stimulated by ________ in the air.
- A.
Pressure
- B.
Chemicals
- C.
Proteins
- D.
Water
- E.
Dust
Correct Answer
B. ChemicalsExplanation
The sensory neurons within the olfactory organ are stimulated by chemicals in the air. This is because the olfactory organ, which is responsible for our sense of smell, contains specialized receptors that detect and respond to different chemical molecules. When these molecules are present in the air, they bind to the receptors on the sensory neurons, triggering a signal that is sent to the brain, allowing us to perceive and identify different smells.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Before an olfactory receptor can detect an odorant, it has to
- A.
Contact a specialized olfactory cell.
- B.
Bind to receptors in olfactory cilia.
- C.
Gate open ion channels.
- D.
Respond to applied pressure.
- E.
Be transported to the olfactory bulbs.
Correct Answer
B. Bind to receptors in olfactory cilia.Explanation
Olfactory receptors are located in the olfactory cilia, which are hair-like structures in the nasal cavity. These receptors are responsible for detecting odorants. In order for an odorant to be detected, it needs to bind to these receptors in the olfactory cilia. This binding triggers a signal that is then transmitted to the brain, allowing us to perceive the smell. Therefore, the correct answer is "bind to receptors in olfactory cilia".Rate this question:
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- 4.
All of the following are true of olfactory pathways, except
- A.
They project first to the mamillary bodies and then to the thalamus.
- B.
The first synapse is in the olfactory bulb.
- C.
Information flows to the olfactory cortex, hypothalamus, and limbic system.
- D.
They reach the forebrain without first synapsing in the thalamus.
- E.
They exhibit a considerable amount of convergence.
Correct Answer
A. They project first to the mamillary bodies and then to the thalamus.Explanation
Olfactory pathways do not project first to the mamillary bodies and then to the thalamus. Instead, the olfactory bulb is the first synapse in the olfactory pathway, and information flows to the olfactory cortex, hypothalamus, and limbic system. Additionally, olfactory pathways do reach the forebrain without first synapsing in the thalamus, and they exhibit a considerable amount of convergence. Therefore, the statement "they project first to the mamillary bodies and then to the thalamus" is not true.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Some neural tissues retain stem cells and thus the capacity to divide and replace lost neurons. Which of these special senses can replace its damaged neural receptors?
- A.
Olfaction
- B.
Audition
- C.
Equilibrium
- D.
Vision
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. OlfactionExplanation
Olfaction, or the sense of smell, is the correct answer because it is the only special sense that can replace its damaged neural receptors. The olfactory system contains stem cells that can regenerate and replace damaged olfactory receptors, allowing for the sense of smell to be restored. In contrast, the other special senses such as audition (hearing), equilibrium (balance), and vision do not have the same capacity for regeneration and replacement of damaged neural receptors. Therefore, olfaction is the only special sense that can potentially recover from damage.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Olfactory receptors send axons through the cribriform plate. They synapse on neurons in the
- A.
Medulla oblongata.
- B.
Medial geniculate.
- C.
Cerebral cortex.
- D.
Olfactory bulb.
- E.
Olfactory tract.
Correct Answer
D. Olfactory bulb.Explanation
The olfactory receptors in the nose send their axons through the cribriform plate, which is a bony structure in the skull. These axons then synapse on neurons in the olfactory bulb, which is located at the front of the brain. The olfactory bulb is responsible for processing and relaying olfactory information to other parts of the brain, including the cerebral cortex, where the perception of smell occurs. Therefore, the correct answer is olfactory bulb.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is not a component of the lamina propria of the olfactory organ?
- A.
Areolar tissue
- B.
Blood vessels
- C.
Nerves
- D.
Olfactory glands
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
E. None of the aboveExplanation
The question asks for a component that is not present in the lamina propria of the olfactory organ. The lamina propria is a layer of connective tissue that supports the olfactory epithelium. It contains various components such as areolar tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and olfactory glands. Therefore, the correct answer is "none of the above" as all the listed components are indeed present in the lamina propria of the olfactory organ.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Axons leaving the olfactory epithelium collect into ________ or more bundles that penetrate the cribriform plate of the ethmoid.
- A.
4
- B.
8
- C.
12
- D.
15
- E.
20
Correct Answer
E. 20Explanation
Axons leaving the olfactory epithelium collect into bundles that penetrate the cribriform plate of the ethmoid. The question is asking for the number of bundles, and the correct answer is 20.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Olfactory information is first received by which part of the brain?
- A.
Frontal lobe
- B.
Cerebellum
- C.
Parietal lobe
- D.
Cerebrum
- E.
Medulla oblongata
Correct Answer
D. CerebrumExplanation
The cerebrum is responsible for receiving olfactory information, which is related to the sense of smell. It is the largest part of the brain and is involved in various functions such as perception, thinking, and memory. The olfactory information is received by the olfactory bulbs, which are located in the cerebrum.Rate this question:
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- 10.
How would a molecule that mimics cAMP affect an olfactory receptor?
- A.
It would increase sodium permeability.
- B.
It would open chemically gated sodium channels.
- C.
It would depolarize the olfactory receptor.
- D.
It could trigger an afferent action potential.
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
A molecule that mimics cAMP would affect an olfactory receptor by increasing sodium permeability, opening chemically gated sodium channels, depolarizing the olfactory receptor, and potentially triggering an afferent action potential.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Gustatory receptors are located
- A.
In the eye.
- B.
In the ear.
- C.
On the surface of the tongue.
- D.
In the nose.
- E.
On the skin.
Correct Answer
C. On the surface of the tongue.Explanation
Gustatory receptors are located on the surface of the tongue. These receptors are responsible for detecting and transmitting the sense of taste to the brain. When we eat or drink something, the gustatory receptors on our tongue come into contact with the molecules in the food or drink, and send signals to the brain, allowing us to perceive different tastes such as sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. The location of these receptors on the tongue is crucial for our ability to taste and enjoy different flavors.Rate this question:
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- 12.
An adult has approximately ________ taste buds.
- A.
50
- B.
5,000
- C.
500,000
- D.
500
- E.
50,000
Correct Answer
B. 5,000Explanation
An adult has approximately 5,000 taste buds. Taste buds are small sensory organs on the tongue that allow us to perceive different tastes such as sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. These taste buds are not evenly distributed on the tongue, with some areas having a higher concentration of taste buds than others. As we age, the number of taste buds may decrease, which can affect our ability to taste and perceive flavors.Rate this question:
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- 13.
All of the following compose the epithelial projections found on the tongue, except
- A.
Fungiform papillae.
- B.
Circumvallate papillae.
- C.
Filiform papillae.
- D.
Gustatory papillae.
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. Gustatory papillae.Explanation
The correct answer is gustatory papillae. The question asks for the epithelial projections found on the tongue, and all of the options except gustatory papillae are types of papillae found on the tongue. Fungiform papillae, circumvallate papillae, and filiform papillae are all types of papillae that contain taste buds and contribute to the sense of taste. Gustatory papillae, on the other hand, do not exist and are not a recognized term in the context of tongue anatomy.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following is not one of the six primary taste sensations?
- A.
Sweet
- B.
Peppery
- C.
Sour
- D.
Salty
- E.
Umami
Correct Answer
B. PepperyExplanation
Peppery is not one of the six primary taste sensations because it is not recognized as a distinct taste by the human taste buds. The six primary taste sensations are sweet, sour, salty, bitter, umami, and fat. Peppery flavor is often associated with the sensation of heat or spiciness, which is detected by the trigeminal nerve rather than the taste buds.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The taste sensation that is triggered by the amino acids and small peptides is known as
- A.
Sweet.
- B.
Umami.
- C.
Salty.
- D.
Peppery.
- E.
Sour.
Correct Answer
B. Umami.Explanation
Umami is the taste sensation that is triggered by the amino acids and small peptides. It is often described as a savory or meaty taste and is commonly found in foods such as meat, fish, mushrooms, and soy sauce. Umami is one of the five basic tastes, along with sweet, salty, sour, and bitter.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The largest numbers of taste buds in adults are associated with the
- A.
Pharynx.
- B.
Larynx.
- C.
Filiform papillae.
- D.
Fungiform papillae.
- E.
Circumvallate papillae.
Correct Answer
E. Circumvallate papillae.Explanation
Circumvallate papillae are the largest taste buds in adults. These papillae are located at the back of the tongue in a V-shaped formation. They are larger in size and have more taste buds compared to other types of papillae. The taste buds on circumvallate papillae are responsible for detecting bitter taste.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The function of gustatory receptors parallels that of
- A.
Light receptors in the eye.
- B.
Mechanoreceptors in the ear.
- C.
Olfactory receptors.
- D.
Lamellated corpuscles.
- E.
Meissner corpuscles.
Correct Answer
C. Olfactory receptors.Explanation
The function of gustatory receptors is similar to that of olfactory receptors. Both types of receptors are involved in the perception of different sensory stimuli. Gustatory receptors are responsible for detecting taste, while olfactory receptors are responsible for detecting smell. Both types of receptors play a crucial role in our ability to perceive and distinguish different flavors and smells.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Taste buds are monitored by cranial nerves
- A.
IX, X, and XI.
- B.
VII, VIII, and IX.
- C.
VII, IX, and X.
- D.
V, VII, and IX.
- E.
IX, XI, and XII.
Correct Answer
C. VII, IX, and X.Explanation
Taste buds are monitored by cranial nerves VII, IX, and X. Cranial nerve VII, also known as the facial nerve, carries taste information from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Cranial nerve IX, also known as the glossopharyngeal nerve, carries taste information from the posterior one-third of the tongue. Cranial nerve X, also known as the vagus nerve, carries taste information from the epiglottis and the lower pharynx. Therefore, the correct answer is cranial nerves VII, IX, and X.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Taste receptors are distributed in which of the following places?
- A.
Surface of the epiglottis
- B.
Surface of the tongue
- C.
Portions of the pharynx
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Taste receptors are distributed in all of the mentioned places, including the surface of the epiglottis, surface of the tongue, and portions of the pharynx. These taste receptors are responsible for detecting different tastes and sending signals to the brain to interpret them.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A patient who experienced head trauma has lost the ability to taste spicy food. You should expect damage to cranial nerve ________.
- A.
VII
- B.
III
- C.
IX
- D.
V
- E.
XII
Correct Answer
D. VExplanation
Damage to cranial nerve V, also known as the trigeminal nerve, would result in the loss of the ability to taste spicy food. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the face, including the mouth and tongue. It carries information related to touch, pain, and temperature sensation. Since the ability to taste spicy food involves the perception of heat and pain, damage to the trigeminal nerve would impair this sensation.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Stimulation of nociceptive receptors within the trigeminal nerve might produce a perception of
- A.
Intensely sweet.
- B.
Intensely sour.
- C.
Quite salty.
- D.
Peppery hot.
- E.
Decidedly bitter.
Correct Answer
D. Peppery hot.Explanation
Stimulation of nociceptive receptors within the trigeminal nerve can produce a perception of peppery hot. Nociceptive receptors are responsible for detecting and transmitting pain signals, and when they are activated in the trigeminal nerve, they can cause a sensation of heat or burning, similar to the feeling of eating something spicy or peppery. This is different from the other taste perceptions mentioned, such as sweet, sour, salty, or bitter, which are typically detected by taste receptors on the tongue.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The external ear ends at the
- A.
Vestibule.
- B.
Cochlea.
- C.
Ossicles.
- D.
Tympanic membrane.
- E.
Pinna.
Correct Answer
D. Tympanic membrane.Explanation
The external ear refers to the part of the ear that is visible on the outside of the head. It includes the pinna, which is the fleshy, cartilaginous structure that helps collect sound waves. The external ear ends at the tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum. This thin, delicate membrane separates the external ear from the middle ear and plays a crucial role in transmitting sound vibrations to the middle ear.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The auditory ossicles connect the
- A.
Tympanic membrane to the oval window.
- B.
Tympanic membrane to the round window.
- C.
Oval window to the round window.
- D.
Stapedius to the tympanic membrane.
- E.
Otitis to the media.
Correct Answer
A. Tympanic membrane to the oval window.Explanation
The auditory ossicles, which consist of the malleus, incus, and stapes, connect the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the oval window. The tympanic membrane vibrates when sound waves hit it, and these vibrations are then transmitted through the ossicles to the oval window. The oval window is a membrane-covered opening in the cochlea, the fluid-filled structure of the inner ear. When the vibrations reach the oval window, they create fluid waves in the cochlea, which ultimately lead to the stimulation of auditory receptors and the perception of sound.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The middle ear communicates with the nasopharynx through the
- A.
Auricle.
- B.
Membranous labyrinth.
- C.
Bony labyrinth.
- D.
Auditory tube.
- E.
Auditory meatus.
Correct Answer
D. Auditory tube.Explanation
The middle ear communicates with the nasopharynx through the auditory tube. The auditory tube, also known as the Eustachian tube, connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This tube helps equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere, allowing for proper hearing and preventing damage to the eardrum.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following descriptions best matches the term stapes?
- A.
Moves up and down when the stapedius muscle contracts
- B.
Auditory ossicle attached to tympanic membrane
- C.
Bending it produces receptor potential in hair cells
- D.
Necessary for the static sense of equilibrium
- E.
Seals the oval window
Correct Answer
E. Seals the oval windowExplanation
The term stapes refers to a bone in the middle ear that seals the oval window. The oval window is a membrane that separates the middle ear from the inner ear. When the stapes bone seals the oval window, it helps to transmit sound vibrations from the middle ear to the inner ear, allowing for the process of hearing.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The ________ ear collects sounds waves and transmits them to the ________ ear, which contains auditory ossicles.
- A.
Inner; middle
- B.
Outer; middle
- C.
Outer; inner
- D.
Middle; inner
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Outer; middleExplanation
The outer ear collects sound waves and funnels them into the ear canal. These sound waves then travel through the ear canal and reach the middle ear, where the auditory ossicles are located. The auditory ossicles consist of three small bones called the malleus, incus, and stapes, which transmit the sound vibrations to the inner ear. Therefore, the correct answer is outer; middle.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The external acoustic meatus ends at
- A.
The tympanic membrane.
- B.
The eardrum.
- C.
The tympanum.
- D.
A, B, or C
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. A, B, or CExplanation
The external acoustic meatus is the ear canal that leads from the outer ear to the middle ear. It ends at the tympanic membrane, which is commonly known as the eardrum. Therefore, options A, B, and C are all correct as they refer to the same structure.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Which of these anatomical sequences is correct?
- A.
Tympanum - incus - malleus - stapes - oval window - round window
- B.
Tympanum - incus - malleus - stapes - round window - oval window
- C.
Tympanum - malleus - incus - stapes - oval window - round window
- D.
Tympanum - incus - stapes - malleus - oval window - round window
- E.
Tympanum - malleus - incus - stapes - round window - oval window
Correct Answer
C. Tympanum - malleus - incus - stapes - oval window - round windowExplanation
The correct answer is "tympanum - malleus - incus - stapes - oval window - round window". This sequence follows the correct order of the anatomical structures involved in the transmission of sound in the middle ear. The tympanum (eardrum) vibrates when sound waves hit it, which in turn causes the malleus (hammer) to move. The malleus then transfers the vibrations to the incus (anvil), which passes them on to the stapes (stirrup). The stapes then transmits the vibrations to the oval window, which leads to the inner ear. Finally, the round window acts as a pressure relief valve for the fluid-filled cochlea.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which of the following descriptions best matches the term ossicles?
- A.
Move up and down when the stapes moves back and forth
- B.
Transmit movement of the tympanic membrane to the inner ear
- C.
Bending these produces receptor potential in hair cells
- D.
Tiny weights necessary for the static sense of equilibrium
- E.
Seal the oval window
Correct Answer
B. Transmit movement of the tympanic membrane to the inner earExplanation
The term ossicles refers to the tiny bones in the middle ear that transmit the movement of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the inner ear. These ossicles include the malleus, incus, and stapes, which work together to amplify and transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea in the inner ear. This allows for the conversion of sound waves into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Identify the structures labeled "8."
- A.
Cochlea
- B.
Auditory ossicles
- C.
Auricle
- D.
Tympanic membrane
- E.
Vestibule
Correct Answer
B. Auditory ossiclesExplanation
The structures labeled "8" in the given options are the auditory ossicles. The auditory ossicles are a group of three small bones located in the middle ear: the malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup). These bones play a crucial role in transmitting sound vibrations from the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the inner ear (cochlea), where they are converted into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which structure contains the receptors for hearing?
- A.
6
- B.
8
- C.
9
- D.
10
- E.
11
Correct Answer
E. 11Explanation
Structure 11 contains the receptors for hearing.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which structure is known as the vestibule?
- A.
6
- B.
8
- C.
9
- D.
10
- E.
11
Correct Answer
A. 6 -
- 33.
Identify the structure that is covered up by the stapes.
- A.
4
- B.
5
- C.
6
- D.
8
- E.
9
Correct Answer
A. 4 -
- 34.
Identify the structure labeled "3."
- A.
Cochlea
- B.
Semicircular canals
- C.
Auricle
- D.
Tympanic membrane
- E.
Vestibule
Correct Answer
D. Tympanic membraneExplanation
The structure labeled "3." in the given options is the tympanic membrane. The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is a thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear. It plays a crucial role in the process of hearing by vibrating in response to sound waves and transmitting these vibrations to the middle ear.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The vibrations received by the tympanic membrane are transferred to the oval window by the
- A.
Auditory ossicles.
- B.
Cochlea.
- C.
Oval window.
- D.
Tensor tympani.
- E.
Stapedius muscle.
Correct Answer
A. Auditory ossicles.Explanation
The vibrations received by the tympanic membrane need to be transferred to the oval window in order for sound to be transmitted to the inner ear. The auditory ossicles, which include the malleus, incus, and stapes, are a chain of small bones in the middle ear that help amplify and transmit these vibrations. They connect the tympanic membrane to the oval window, allowing the vibrations to be efficiently transferred and transmitted to the cochlea for further processing.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The senses of equilibrium and hearing are provided by receptors of the
- A.
Membranous endolymph.
- B.
Organ of Schlemm.
- C.
Inner ear.
- D.
Bony labyrinth.
- E.
Perilymph.
Correct Answer
C. Inner ear.Explanation
The correct answer is "inner ear" because the senses of equilibrium and hearing are both provided by receptors located within the inner ear. The inner ear contains structures such as the cochlea, which is responsible for hearing, and the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and equilibrium. These structures are filled with fluid called endolymph, which helps transmit sound waves and detect changes in head position and movement. The inner ear is an essential part of our auditory and vestibular systems, allowing us to perceive sound and maintain our balance.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Gravity and linear acceleration are sensed in the
- A.
Semicircular canals.
- B.
Cochlea.
- C.
Statoconia.
- D.
Saccule and utricle.
- E.
Organ of Corti.
Correct Answer
D. Saccule and utricle.Explanation
The saccule and utricle are responsible for sensing gravity and linear acceleration. These structures are part of the vestibular system, which is located in the inner ear. The semicircular canals, cochlea, statoconia, and organ of Corti have different functions and are not involved in sensing gravity and linear acceleration.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The sensory receptors of the semicircular canals are located in the
- A.
Saccules.
- B.
Ampullae.
- C.
Perilymph.
- D.
Utricles.
- E.
Cupulae.
Correct Answer
B. Ampullae.Explanation
The sensory receptors of the semicircular canals are located in the ampullae. The ampullae are enlarged regions at the base of each semicircular canal that contain hair cells, which are responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head. These hair cells are embedded in a gelatinous structure called the cupula, which moves in response to the flow of fluid within the semicircular canals. Therefore, the correct answer is ampullae.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Movement of the endolymph in the semicircular canals
- A.
Produces a rushing sound.
- B.
Allows us to hear low tones.
- C.
Signals rotational movements.
- D.
Signals body position with respect to gravity.
- E.
Signals linear acceleration.
Correct Answer
C. Signals rotational movements.Explanation
The movement of the endolymph in the semicircular canals is responsible for detecting rotational movements. These canals are filled with fluid, and when the head rotates, the fluid moves, stimulating hair cells that send signals to the brain. This allows us to perceive and sense changes in our rotational movements.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The hair cells of the utricle and saccule are clustered in
- A.
Ampullae.
- B.
Cristae.
- C.
Cupulae.
- D.
Maculae.
- E.
Otoconia.
Correct Answer
D. Maculae.Explanation
The hair cells of the utricle and saccule are clustered in maculae. Maculae are specialized sensory areas located within the vestibule of the inner ear. They contain hair cells that are responsible for detecting linear acceleration and head position changes. The maculae are covered by a gelatinous layer that contains tiny calcium carbonate crystals called otoconia. When the head moves, the otoconia shift, causing the hair cells to bend and generate electrical signals that are sent to the brain for interpretation. Therefore, the correct answer is maculae.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Perception of gravity and linear acceleration depends on
- A.
Changes in the pressure exerted by the cupula on hair cells.
- B.
Vibrations of the tectorial membrane striking hair cells.
- C.
The force exerted by otoliths on hair cells of the maculae.
- D.
The movement of endolymph within the semicircular canals.
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. The force exerted by otoliths on hair cells of the maculae.Explanation
The correct answer is "the force exerted by otoliths on hair cells of the maculae." The otoliths are small calcium carbonate crystals that are embedded in a gelatinous matrix on top of the hair cells in the maculae of the vestibule. When the head moves, the otoliths shift, causing a bending of the hair cells. This bending generates electrical signals that are sent to the brain, which allows us to perceive changes in gravity and linear acceleration. The other options mentioned in the question do not directly relate to the perception of gravity and linear acceleration.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Which of the following descriptions best matches the term otoliths?
- A.
Move up and down when the stapes moves back and forth
- B.
Ransmit movement of the tympanic membrane to the inner ear
- C.
Bending these produces receptor potential in hair cells
- D.
Tiny weights necessary for the static sense of equilibrium
- E.
Seal the oval window
Correct Answer
D. Tiny weights necessary for the static sense of equilibriumExplanation
Otoliths are tiny weights that are necessary for the static sense of equilibrium. These structures are found in the inner ear and are responsible for detecting changes in head position and linear acceleration. When the head moves, the otoliths move, stimulating hair cells and sending signals to the brain about the body's position in space. This allows us to maintain balance and a sense of stability.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The ________ convey(s) information about head position with respect to gravity.
- A.
Cochlea
- B.
Utricle
- C.
Ampulla
- D.
Saccule
- E.
Utricle and saccule
Correct Answer
E. Utricle and sacculeExplanation
The utricle and saccule are parts of the inner ear that are responsible for conveying information about head position with respect to gravity. They contain specialized sensory cells and tiny calcium carbonate crystals called otoliths, which detect changes in head position and movement. When the head moves, the otoliths move and stimulate the sensory cells, sending signals to the brain about the direction and speed of movement. This information helps us maintain balance and coordinate our movements.Rate this question:
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- 44.
When an external force bends the stereocilia of the inner ear hair cells,
- A.
The force is converted into mechanical energy.
- B.
The hair cells are temporarily damaged.
- C.
There is a change in the transmembrane potential of the hair cells.
- D.
Dizziness results.
- E.
The cells become unresponsive.
Correct Answer
C. There is a change in the transmembrane potential of the hair cells.Explanation
When an external force bends the stereocilia of the inner ear hair cells, it causes a change in the transmembrane potential of the hair cells. This change in potential is a result of the mechanical stimulation of the hair cells, which triggers the opening of ion channels and the generation of electrical signals. This change in transmembrane potential is essential for the hair cells to transmit auditory information to the brain.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Which of the following descriptions best matches the term stereocilia?
- A.
Move up and down when the stapes moves back and forth
- B.
Transmit movement of the tympanic membrane to the inner ear
- C.
Bending these produces receptor potential in hair cells
- D.
Iny weights necessary for the static sense of equilibrium
- E.
Seal the oval window
Correct Answer
C. Bending these produces receptor potential in hair cellsExplanation
Stereocilia are tiny hair-like projections found on the hair cells in the inner ear. When these stereocilia are bent, it triggers a receptor potential in the hair cells, which is an electrical signal that is then transmitted to the brain for interpretation. This bending of stereocilia is essential for the process of hearing and is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain.Rate this question:
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- 46.
The quantity of neurotransmitter that is released by a hair cell
- A.
Responds to almost any mechanical stimulation of the hair cell.
- B.
Is sensitive to which way stereocilia are bent with respect to the kinocilium.
- C.
Determines if a sensory neuron will be excited.
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because the quantity of neurotransmitter released by a hair cell can respond to almost any mechanical stimulation of the hair cell. It is also sensitive to the way stereocilia are bent with respect to the kinocilium, and it determines if a sensory neuron will be excited. Therefore, all of the given options are correct explanations for the quantity of neurotransmitter released by a hair cell.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The structure that overlies the organ of Corti is the
- A.
Basilar membrane.
- B.
Tectorial membrane.
- C.
Stapedius.
- D.
Perilymph.
- E.
Endolymph.
Correct Answer
B. Tectorial membrane.Explanation
The tectorial membrane is a structure that overlies the organ of Corti in the inner ear. It is a gelatinous membrane that extends over the hair cells of the cochlea. When sound vibrations enter the cochlea, they cause the hair cells to bend against the tectorial membrane, which then stimulates the hair cells and helps convert the sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. The other options mentioned, such as the basilar membrane, stapedius, perilymph, and endolymph, are not the correct structures that overlay the organ of Corti.Rate this question:
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- 48.
The structure that supports the organ of Corti is the
- A.
Tectorial membrane.
- B.
Basilar membrane.
- C.
Membranous labyrinth.
- D.
Vestibular duct.
- E.
Tympanic membrane.
Correct Answer
B. Basilar membrane.Explanation
The organ of Corti is a structure located in the cochlea of the inner ear and is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. The basilar membrane is a crucial component of the organ of Corti as it supports the sensory hair cells that detect sound waves. As sound vibrations pass through the cochlea, they cause the basilar membrane to vibrate, which in turn stimulates the hair cells and initiates the process of sound perception. Therefore, the basilar membrane is the correct answer as it plays a vital role in the functioning of the organ of Corti.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Which of the following descriptions best matches the term basilar membrane?
- A.
Moves up and down when the stapes moves back and forth
- B.
Transmits movement of the tympanic membrane to the inner ear
- C.
Supports the olfactory organ
- D.
Tiny duct necessary for the static sense of equilibrium
- E.
Covers over the oval window
Correct Answer
A. Moves up and down when the stapes moves back and forthExplanation
The basilar membrane is a structure in the inner ear that moves up and down in response to the vibrations created by the stapes bone. This movement is essential for the process of hearing as it stimulates the hair cells on the membrane, which then transmit signals to the brain. Therefore, the description "moves up and down when the stapes moves back and forth" best matches the term basilar membrane.Rate this question:
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- 50.
Sound waves are converted into mechanical movements by the
- A.
Auditory ossicles.
- B.
Cochlea.
- C.
Oval window.
- D.
Round window.
- E.
Tympanic membrane.
Correct Answer
E. Tympanic membrane.Explanation
The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is responsible for converting sound waves into mechanical movements. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the auditory ossicles, a chain of three small bones in the middle ear. The auditory ossicles amplify the vibrations and transmit them to the cochlea, a spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear. The cochlea then converts the mechanical movements into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain as sound. The oval window and round window are openings in the cochlea that help regulate the pressure of the fluid inside, but they do not directly convert sound waves into mechanical movements.Rate this question:
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