Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Hair cells receptive to changes in static equilibrium are found in which structure of the inner ear?
A
Semicircular canals
B
Utricle and saccule
C
Cochlea
D
Tympanic membrane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of static equilibrium: Static equilibrium refers to the ability to sense the position of the head relative to gravity when the body is stationary. This is different from dynamic equilibrium, which involves sensing motion and rotation.
Identify the structures involved in equilibrium: The inner ear contains specialized structures responsible for equilibrium. These include the semicircular canals (for dynamic equilibrium) and the utricle and saccule (for static equilibrium). The cochlea is involved in hearing, not equilibrium, and the tympanic membrane is part of the outer ear, involved in sound transmission.
Focus on the utricle and saccule: These structures are part of the vestibular system and contain hair cells embedded in a gelatinous layer with otoliths (tiny calcium carbonate crystals). The movement of the otoliths in response to gravity stimulates the hair cells, allowing the brain to detect changes in head position.
Eliminate incorrect options: The semicircular canals are responsible for detecting rotational movements (dynamic equilibrium), not static equilibrium. The cochlea is involved in hearing, and the tympanic membrane is part of sound transmission, not equilibrium.
Conclude that the utricle and saccule are the correct structures: Based on their function in detecting changes in static equilibrium, the utricle and saccule are the correct answer to the question.