How does the organ of Corti serve as an audiofrequency analyzer?
The anatomic arrangement allows frequency analysis of sounds:
• The basilar membrane responds to high frequencies at its base and to low frequencies at its apex.
• The hair cells in the base of the cochlear duct have short and fat stereocilia, which are stimulated by high frequencies.
• The hair cells in the apex of the cochlea have long and thin stereocilia, which respond best to low frequencies.
