1.
Hearing loss may affect...
Correct Answer(s)
A. Speech perception
B. Development of communication skills (both speech and language)
C. The ability to learn
D. Social skills
Explanation
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on various aspects of an individual's life. It can affect speech perception, making it difficult for individuals to understand and interpret spoken language. This, in turn, can hinder the development of communication skills, including both speech and language abilities. Hearing loss can also impact the ability to learn, as hearing is crucial for acquiring new knowledge and understanding instructions. Additionally, hearing loss can affect social skills, as it may make it challenging to engage in conversations and interact with others effectively. Lastly, hearing loss can have implications for cognitive development and learning to write, as hearing plays a crucial role in language and literacy development.
2.
The speed at which sound travels depends on the elasticity of the medium through which it is travelling.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Sound travels faster through more elastic mediums
3.
Sound originated through a vibrating source and is propagated through a
Correct Answer
medium
Explanation
Sound is a form of energy that is produced when a source, such as a vibrating object, causes particles in a medium to vibrate. These vibrations then travel through the medium, which can be a solid, liquid, or gas, in the form of waves. The medium acts as a pathway for the sound waves to travel from the source to our ears, allowing us to perceive and hear the sound. Without a medium, such as air or water, sound waves cannot propagate and would not be able to reach our ears.
4.
Sound will travel through space.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Sound will not travel through space as there is no medium for it to travel through!
5.
Individual particles of the medium travel with the wave.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The particles vibrate back and forth around their equilibrium position, they do not move with the wave!
6.
Approximately how long is a wavelength?
Correct Answer
A. 34cm
Explanation
A wavelength refers to the distance between two corresponding points on a wave, such as the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs. In this case, the correct answer is 34cm, which suggests that the wavelength being referred to is approximately 34 centimeters in length.
7.
One Hz is equal to...
Correct Answer
A. One complete cycle (one compression and one rarefaction)
Explanation
The correct answer is "One complete cycle (one compression and one rarefaction)." This is because one Hz (Hertz) represents one complete oscillation or vibration per second. In the context of sound waves, one complete cycle includes both a compression (where the particles are closer together) and a rarefaction (where the particles are spread apart). Therefore, one Hz corresponds to one complete cycle of a sound wave, which includes both a compression and a rarefaction.
8.
The frequency of the sound wave determines the sound's...
Correct Answer
A. Pitch
Explanation
The frequency of a sound wave refers to the number of cycles or vibrations the wave completes in a given unit of time. This frequency directly correlates to the perceived pitch of the sound. Higher frequencies result in higher-pitched sounds, while lower frequencies result in lower-pitched sounds. Therefore, the correct answer is "Pitch."
9.
The human ear can detect what range of frequencies?
Correct Answer
A. 20-20,000 Hz
Explanation
The human ear can detect a range of frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz. This range is commonly referred to as the audible frequency range. Frequencies below 20 Hz are considered infrasound and frequencies above 20,000 Hz are considered ultrasound, which are typically not audible to the human ear. The range of 20-20,000 Hz encompasses the frequencies of most sounds that we encounter in our daily lives, including speech, music, and environmental sounds.
10.
The amplitude of a sound wave relates to the changes above and below atmospheric pressure. What is this change called?
Correct Answer
A. Displacement
Explanation
The correct answer is Displacement. The amplitude of a sound wave refers to the maximum distance that particles in the medium (such as air) are displaced from their equilibrium position as the wave passes through. It is a measure of the intensity or loudness of the sound. So, the change in pressure above and below atmospheric pressure is called displacement.
11.
Displacement is often quoted in
Correct Answer
A. DB
Explanation
Displacement refers to the perceived loudness of a sound
12.
In general, the lower the amplitude, the louder the sound.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The higher the amplitude, the louder the sound. Amplitude is physical, loudness is subjective.
13.
What is the average hearing threshold for young, healthy ears?
Correct Answer
A. 0dB
Explanation
This is also the softest sound which can be heard
14.
Each increase of how many dB represents an approximate doubling of the perceived loudness of the sound?
Correct Answer
A. 10dB
Explanation
Each increase of 10dB represents an approximate doubling of the perceived loudness of the sound. This is because the decibel scale is logarithmic, not linear. A 10dB increase means that the sound is 10 times more intense, which is equivalent to doubling the perceived loudness. Therefore, the correct answer is 10dB.
15.
The outer ear consists of the
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pinna
B. External Auditory Meatus
Explanation
The correct answer is Pinna, External Auditory Meatus. The outer ear is the visible part of the ear and is responsible for collecting sound waves. The pinna, also known as the auricle, is the fleshy, cartilaginous part of the outer ear that helps to direct sound waves into the ear canal. The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is the tube-like structure that leads from the pinna to the middle ear. It is lined with hair and wax-producing glands to protect the ear from foreign objects and infections. Together, the pinna and external auditory meatus play a crucial role in the process of hearing.
16.
Sound waves are collected by the
Correct Answer
A. Pinna
Explanation
They are collected by the pinna and then funnelled down through the EAM to the TM
17.
The External Auditory Meatus is lined with skin and leads from the bottom of the concha of the pinna to the tympanic membrane.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is indeed lined with skin. It is a tube-like structure that starts from the bottom of the concha of the pinna (the visible part of the ear) and extends to the tympanic membrane (eardrum). This lining of skin helps protect the ear canal and also plays a role in the production of earwax. Therefore, the statement provided is true.
18.
Approximately how long is the external auditory meatus in adults?
Correct Answer
A. 2.5cm
Explanation
The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is approximately 2.5cm long in adults. This is the passage that leads from the outer ear to the middle ear. It is responsible for transmitting sound waves to the eardrum, allowing us to hear.
19.
What is the non-acoustic function of the outer ear?
Correct Answer
A. To protect against against assault and injury
Explanation
The outer ear serves as a physical barrier that helps protect the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear from external harm. It consists of the pinna and the ear canal, which act as a shield, preventing foreign objects from entering the ear and potentially causing damage. Additionally, the shape and positioning of the outer ear help in localizing sound sources and enhancing sound reception, but this is not mentioned in the given options.
20.
What are the acoustic characteristics and functions of the outer ear?
Correct Answer(s)
A. To collect sound
B. To increase sound pressure at the tympanic membrane by generating resonances
C. To aid in sound localisation
Explanation
The outer ear has several acoustic characteristics and functions. Firstly, it helps to collect sound by acting as a funnel, directing sound waves towards the ear canal. Secondly, it increases sound pressure at the tympanic membrane by generating resonances, which helps in amplifying the sound. Thirdly, the outer ear aids in sound localization by helping to determine the direction and location of the sound source. Lastly, it also plays a role in balance and proprioception, helping us maintain our equilibrium and sense the position of our body in space.
21.
How much of a boost does the pinna give?
Correct Answer
A. +5dB
Explanation
The pinna is the outer part of the ear that helps to collect sound waves and direct them into the ear canal. It acts as a natural amplifier by boosting the sound by approximately 5dB. This boost in volume allows us to better perceive and locate sounds in our environment.
22.
The outer ear is an acoustic cavity which resonates, and resonances of the pinna and meatus help to increase the sound pressure at the tympanic membrane.
The peak of this pressure gain occurs at which frequency and approximates to how many dB?
Correct Answer
A. 2-5k Hz; 15-20dB
Explanation
2-5k Hz; 15-20dB - therefore, human hearing is most sensitive at these frequencies!
23.
Which are the two most important cues for sound localisation in people?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Intensity differences at the two ears
B. Timing differences at the two ears
Explanation
The two most important cues for sound localization in people are intensity differences at the two ears and timing differences at the two ears. Intensity differences refer to the difference in loudness of a sound reaching each ear, which allows the brain to determine the direction of the sound source. Timing differences, on the other hand, refer to the slight delay in the arrival of a sound at one ear compared to the other, which helps the brain determine the location of the sound source. These two cues work together to provide accurate sound localization.
24.
The outer ear in sound localisation will catch more high frequency sounds easily from the front
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The outer ear, also known as the pinna, plays a crucial role in sound localization. Its unique shape and structure help in capturing and funneling sound waves into the ear canal. The shape of the pinna allows it to effectively amplify high-frequency sounds coming from the front, making it easier to locate the source of these sounds. This is because high-frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths and are more easily affected by the shape of the pinna. Therefore, the statement that the outer ear catches more high-frequency sounds easily from the front is true.
25.
The outer ear in sound localisation helps us to determine if sounds come from below or above.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The outer ear plays a crucial role in sound localization. Its unique shape and position allow it to capture sound waves from different angles, enabling us to determine the direction from which a sound is coming. By comparing the slight differences in sound arrival time and intensity between the ears, our brain can accurately locate the source of the sound in three-dimensional space. This ability also helps us determine if sounds come from below or above, making the statement "The outer ear in sound localization helps us to determine if sounds come from below or above" true.
26.
The outer ear will catch more low frequency sounds easily from the front
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The outer ear will catch more HIGH frequency sounds easily from the front
27.
How does the external ear assist in sound localisations?
Correct Answer
A. By producing spectral modulations of incoming sounds
Explanation
Because there is a reduction in the level of higher frequency sounds (3-6kHz region) that reach the tympanic membrane when the sound source is behind the ear, relative to when the level when the source is in front of the ear
28.
Approximately how long is the tympanic membrane?
Correct Answer
A. 8-10mm
Explanation
It is made up of a thin, fibrous layer covered by skin on the outside, and mucosa on the internal surface
29.
The fibrous layer of the tympanic membrane extends throughout the pars tensa, but not the pars flaccida.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The fibrous layer of the tympanic membrane extends throughout the pars tensa, which is the thicker and more rigid part of the eardrum. However, it does not extend into the pars flaccida, which is a smaller and more flexible part of the eardrum. This is why the statement is true, as the fibrous layer is present in one part of the eardrum but not the other.
30.
How does the tympanic membrane receive the incoming sound?
Correct Answer
A. Vibrates back and forth with incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave
Explanation
The correct answer is "Vibrates back and forth with incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave." The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, receives sound waves and vibrates in response to the incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave. This vibration is then transmitted to the middle ear, where it is further amplified and transmitted to the inner ear for processing and interpretation.
31.
The middle ear is an air-filled chamber which sits between the ear canal and the inner ear.
How is it connected to the nasopharynx?
Correct Answer
A. Via the Eustachian tube
Explanation
The middle ear is connected to the nasopharynx via the Eustachian tube. This tube acts as a pathway that allows air to flow between the middle ear and the back of the throat. It helps to equalize the pressure on both sides of the eardrum, ensuring that the eardrum can vibrate properly and allowing for normal hearing.
32.
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) can be found in which part of the ear?
Correct Answer
A. Middle ear
Explanation
The auditory ossicles, including the incus, malleus, and stapes, are located in the middle ear. The middle ear is the space between the eardrum and the inner ear. These tiny bones transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.
33.
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) form a chain which connect the tympanic membrane with what?
Correct Answer
A. Oval window
Explanation
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) form a chain that connects the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the oval window. The oval window is a membrane-covered opening that separates the middle ear from the inner ear. When sound waves enter the ear and cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate, these vibrations are transmitted through the auditory ossicles and ultimately to the oval window. The oval window then transfers these vibrations to the fluid-filled cochlea in the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain as sound.
34.
Which of the following are functions of the middle ear?
Correct Answer(s)
A. To transform acoustic energy in air at the tympanic membrane to acoustic energy in the fluids of the cochlea
B. To increase the efficiency of sound energy transfer to the cochlea by increasing the sound pressure at the oval window
Explanation
The middle ear serves multiple functions in the process of hearing. One of its main functions is to transform acoustic energy in air at the tympanic membrane to acoustic energy in the fluids of the cochlea. This transformation allows the sound waves to be transmitted from the outer ear to the inner ear, where they can be processed and interpreted by the brain. Additionally, the middle ear helps increase the efficiency of sound energy transfer to the cochlea by increasing the sound pressure at the oval window. This amplification helps to enhance the perception of sound and improve overall hearing sensitivity.
35.
By approximately how much less would we hear if we had no middle ear?
Correct Answer
A. 28dB
Explanation
We would hear approximately 28dB less without a middle ear as the middle ear is essential for the transfer of sound waves from air to fluid. If the sound went straight from air to fluid, approximately 99% of the sound would be reflected away.
36.
Approximately how much larger is the tympanic membrane than the stapes footplate (which bangs against the oval window)?
Correct Answer
A. 17 times
Explanation
Because the eardrum has a surface area approximately 17 times larger than the stapes footplate, the sound pressure at the footplate is 17 times greater than pressure at the eardrum due to the difference in surface area.
37.
Approximately how much longer is the arm of the malleus compared with that of the incus?
Correct Answer
A. 1.3 times
Explanation
This results in a lever action that increases the force and produces a 1.3 factor increase in pressure at the oval window.
38.
Which of the following is the correct general positioning of the Eustachian tube from the anterior wall of the tympanic cavity?
Correct Answer
A. Downwards, forwards, and medially
Explanation
The Eustachian tube is positioned downwards, forwards, and medially from the anterior wall of the tympanic cavity. This positioning allows for the proper drainage of fluids from the middle ear into the nasopharynx, helping to maintain equal pressure on both sides of the eardrum.
39.
When does the Eustachian tube close?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Yawning
B. Swallowing
Explanation
When closed, the Eustachian tube opens briefly, allowing air to enter the middle ear, replacing the air that has diffused into the mucous lining. This keeps the middle ear pressure the same as the atmospheric pressure.
40.
What is the main function of the Eustachian tube?
Correct Answer
A. Aerate the middle ear so that pressure in the middle ear cavity remains the same as the atmospHeric pressure
Explanation
This allows the tympanic membrane to vibrate with the sound waves
41.
Eustachian tube blockages are common, especially in children, and often lead to middle ear problems.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Eustachian tube blockages are common, especially in children, and often lead to middle ear problems. This means that the statement is true.
42.
At birth, the Eustachian tube is almost completely horizontal.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
At birth, the Eustachian tube is almost completely horizontal. This is because the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, is not fully developed in newborns. As a result, it is positioned more horizontally than in adults. This horizontal orientation can make it more difficult for fluid to drain from the middle ear, which can contribute to ear infections in infants and young children. As the child grows, the Eustachian tube gradually becomes more vertical, allowing for better drainage and reducing the risk of ear infections.
43.
How long is the Eustachian tube at birth?
Correct Answer
A. 17mm
Explanation
The Eustachian tube is a narrow passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. At birth, the Eustachian tube is approximately 17mm in length. As a child grows, the Eustachian tube also elongates, reaching its adult length of around 35mm. The length of the Eustachian tube is important for maintaining proper pressure and drainage in the middle ear, preventing issues such as ear infections.
44.
How long is the Eustachian tube at 6 years?
Correct Answer
A. 30mm
Explanation
The Eustachian tube is a small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. It helps equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere. The length of the Eustachian tube can vary depending on the age of the individual. At 6 years old, the length of the Eustachian tube is typically 30mm.
45.
How long is the Eustachian tube as an adult?
Correct Answer
A. 36mm
Explanation
The Eustachian tube in an adult is typically 36mm long. This tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps regulate pressure in the ear. It also allows for the drainage of fluids from the middle ear.
46.
Growth of the Eustachian tube is rapid, and for those who experience middle ear problems, many get better after which age?
Correct Answer
A. 6
Explanation
The growth of the Eustachian tube is rapid, and for those who experience middle ear problems, many get better after the age of 6. This suggests that as children grow older, their Eustachian tubes develop and function more effectively, reducing the likelihood of middle ear problems.
47.
Which orifices are relatively wide in childhood?
Correct Answer(s)
A. pHaryngeal
B. Tympanic
Explanation
During childhood, the orifices that are relatively wide are the Pharyngeal and Tympanic orifices. The pharyngeal orifice refers to the opening between the nasal cavity and the throat, while the tympanic orifice is the opening that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. These orifices are wider in childhood to accommodate the growth and development of the respiratory and auditory systems. As a person grows older, these orifices become narrower and more constricted.
48.
At birth, the pharyngeal orifice is immediately above the soft palate. Where is the pharyngeal orifice in adults in relation to the soft palate?
Correct Answer
A. 10mm above
Explanation
In adults, the pharyngeal orifice is located 10mm above the soft palate. This means that it is positioned higher in relation to the soft palate compared to its location at birth.
49.
Where is the inner ear situated?
Correct Answer
A. Within the temporal bone
Explanation
The inner ear is situated within the temporal bone. The temporal bone is a paired bone that forms part of the skull and is located on the sides and base of the skull. It houses various structures of the inner ear, including the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. These structures are responsible for hearing and balance.
50.
The inner ear contains 6 mechanoreceptive structures: 3 semi-circular canals, utricle and saccule, and the cochlea.
What is the purpose of the saccule?
Correct Answer
A. Serves the sense of equilibrium
Explanation
E.g., you can tell you're accelerating, even with your eyes closed!