Hearing Loss Ear Anatomy and Physiology 3

Question 1

Which three tiny bones make up the ossicular chain of the middle ear?

Accepted Answer

Malleus, incus, stapes

Answer

The malleus, incus, and stapes form the ossicular chain that conducts vibrations.

Question 2

What is the main purpose of the ossicles' lever action and area ratio?

Accepted Answer

Amplifying and matching impedance to fluid

Answer

The ossicles boost sound pressure to overcome the impedance of inner ear fluid.

Question 3

The basilar membrane responds to high-frequency sounds most strongly at which location?

Accepted Answer

Base of the cochlea

Answer

The stiff, narrow base of the cochlea is tuned to high frequencies (tonotopic organization).

Question 4

Which muscle contracts to dampen loud sounds by stiffening the stapes?

Accepted Answer

Stapedius

Answer

The stapedius muscle contracts during the acoustic reflex to reduce transmission of loud sounds.

Question 5

The cochlea is divided into how many fluid-filled compartments?

Accepted Answer

Three

Answer

The cochlea has three chambers: scala vestibuli, scala media, and scala tympani.

Hearing Loss Practice Test