which structure in the ear is responsible for detecting sound
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology 2023

1. Which structure in the ear is responsible for detecting sound?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cochlea, situated in the inner ear, is responsible for detecting sound waves and converting them into neural signals that are transmitted to the brain for processing. The cochlea contains specialized sensory cells that respond to different frequencies of sound, allowing us to hear a wide range of sounds. The other structures listed, such as the eustachian tube, ossicles, and semicircular canals, play roles in functions like equalizing pressure, transmitting vibrations, and maintaining balance, respectively, but they are not directly involved in the detection of sound.

2. Which is a secondary defense for the body against pathogens?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inflammation is a secondary defense mechanism for the body against pathogens. When tissues are injured or infected, inflammation occurs as a protective response involving increased blood flow, white blood cell migration, and tissue repair. This process helps contain and eliminate pathogens, preventing them from spreading further in the body. Tears (Choice A) are a primary defense containing lysozyme and other antimicrobial agents. Urine (Choice B) is typically considered a non-specific defense mechanism due to its flushing action in the urinary tract. Mucus (Choice D) acts as a physical barrier and traps pathogens, also considered a primary defense mechanism.

3. What condition might result from a lack of vitamin C?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Scurvy is the correct answer. Scurvy is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and its deficiency leads to symptoms such as weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint pain, fatigue, and easy bruising. If left untreated, scurvy can lead to more severe complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition due to insufficient protein intake, pellagra is caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3), and rickets results from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.

4. What is the most visible part of the ear called?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pinna, also known as the auricle, is the most visible part of the ear. It is responsible for capturing sound waves and directing them into the ear canal, where the process of hearing begins. The other structures mentioned, such as the cochlea, ear canal, and organ of Corti, play crucial roles in the auditory system but are not the most visible parts of the ear. The cochlea is a spiral-shaped cavity responsible for converting sound vibrations into neural signals. The ear canal is a tube that connects the outer ear to the eardrum. The organ of Corti is the actual sensory organ of hearing located in the cochlea.

5. Which structure in the ear is responsible for hearing?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cochlea, located in the inner ear, is responsible for detecting sound waves and converting them into neural signals that are sent to the brain for processing. It plays a crucial role in the process of hearing by translating mechanical vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret as sound. The semicircular canals (Choice B) are responsible for balance and detecting head movements, not hearing. The ossicles (Choice C) are three tiny bones in the middle ear that transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea. The Eustachian tube (Choice D) helps equalize pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere, but it is not directly involved in the process of hearing.

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