Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

15. The Special Senses

Introduction to Special Senses

Anatomy & Physiology

15. The Special Senses

Introduction to Special Senses

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Problem 5

Textbook Question

The basic receptors in the internal ear are the
(a) Utricles
(b) Saccules
(c) Hair cells
(d) Supporting cells
(e) Ampullae

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomy of the internal ear: The internal ear is responsible for both hearing and balance. It contains specialized structures that detect sound waves and changes in equilibrium.

Identify the role of receptors: Receptors in the internal ear are specialized cells that detect mechanical stimuli, such as sound vibrations or movement of fluid within the ear.

Focus on hair cells: Hair cells are the primary sensory receptors in the internal ear. They are located in the cochlea (for hearing) and in the vestibular system (for balance). These cells have stereocilia that bend in response to mechanical stimuli, triggering nerve impulses.

Differentiate other structures: Utricles and saccules are part of the vestibular system and detect linear acceleration and gravity. Ampullae are associated with the semicircular canals and detect rotational movements. Supporting cells provide structural and functional support but are not sensory receptors.

Conclude that hair cells are the basic receptors: Based on their function as sensory receptors, hair cells are the primary structures responsible for detecting stimuli in the internal ear.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hair Cells

Hair cells are specialized sensory cells located in the inner ear that play a crucial role in the auditory and vestibular systems. They convert mechanical stimuli from sound waves or head movements into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain. These cells are essential for hearing and balance, as they respond to fluid movement within the cochlea and vestibular apparatus.

Utricles and Saccules

Utricles and saccules are otolithic organs in the vestibular system of the inner ear that detect linear acceleration and the position of the head relative to gravity. The utricle is oriented horizontally, while the saccule is vertical, allowing them to respond to different types of head movements. They contain hair cells embedded in a gel-like substance with tiny calcium carbonate crystals, which help in sensing changes in motion.

Ampullae

Ampullae are structures located at the base of each semicircular canal in the inner ear, containing the sensory organ called the crista ampullaris. They are responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head. When the head rotates, the fluid in the semicircular canals moves, causing the hair cells in the ampullae to bend and send signals to the brain about the direction and speed of the rotation.