Exam-style question
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How does the frequency of sound waves affect hearing sensitivity?.
- A.Higher frequencies are always louder
- B.Lower frequencies are more easily detected
- C.Sensitivity varies with frequency due to cochlear structure
- D.All frequencies are perceived equally
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Sensitivity varies with frequency due to cochlear structure
Explanation
Why this works
Sensitivity varies with frequency due to cochlear structure, which is the cause of this phenomenon. The mechanism involves specific regions of the cochlea being tuned to different frequencies, leading to the effect of enhanced sensitivity at certain frequencies.
As a consequence, individuals may struggle to hear sounds that fall outside their sensitivity range, affecting communication.
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