Exam-style question
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What is the primary reason for decreased sensitivity to very high or very low frequencies in human hearing?.
- A.The ossicles are too small
- B.The eardrum cannot vibrate effectively
- C.The cochlea's structure limits response
- D.Sound waves are absorbed by the air
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The cochlea's structure limits response
Explanation
Why this works
The cochlea's structure limits response to very high or very low frequencies, which is the cause of decreased sensitivity. The mechanism involves the arrangement of hair cells that are less responsive to these frequencies, leading to the effect of diminished hearing ability at the extremes of the frequency range.
Consequently, this can hinder the ability to perceive certain sounds, impacting overall auditory experience.
Common mistake
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