Audiology - Anatomy And Physiology Of The Ear
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Hearing loss may affect...
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Speech perception
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Development of communication skills (both speech and language)
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The ability to learn
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Social skills
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Cognitive development
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Learning to write
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This Audiology quiz focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the ear, exploring how hearing loss affects speech perception, the properties of sound waves, and the medium's role in sound propagation. Ideal for students and professionals in health sciences and biology.
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- 2.
The speed at which sound travels depends on the elasticity of the medium through which it is travelling.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Sound travels faster through more elastic mediumsRate this question:
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- 3.
Sound originated through a vibrating source and is propagated through a
Correct Answer
mediumExplanation
Sound is a form of energy that is produced when a source, such as a vibrating object, causes particles in a medium to vibrate. These vibrations then travel through the medium, which can be a solid, liquid, or gas, in the form of waves. The medium acts as a pathway for the sound waves to travel from the source to our ears, allowing us to perceive and hear the sound. Without a medium, such as air or water, sound waves cannot propagate and would not be able to reach our ears.Rate this question:
- 4.
Sound will travel through space.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
Sound will not travel through space as there is no medium for it to travel through!Rate this question:
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- 5.
Individual particles of the medium travel with the wave.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
The particles vibrate back and forth around their equilibrium position, they do not move with the wave!Rate this question:
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- 6.
Approximately how long is a wavelength?
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34cm
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28cm
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46cm
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52cm
Correct Answer
A. 34cmExplanation
A wavelength refers to the distance between two corresponding points on a wave, such as the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs. In this case, the correct answer is 34cm, which suggests that the wavelength being referred to is approximately 34 centimeters in length.Rate this question:
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- 7.
One Hz is equal to...
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One complete cycle (one compression and one rarefaction)
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One compression
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One rarefaction
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None of the above
Correct Answer
A. One complete cycle (one compression and one rarefaction)Explanation
The correct answer is "One complete cycle (one compression and one rarefaction)." This is because one Hz (Hertz) represents one complete oscillation or vibration per second. In the context of sound waves, one complete cycle includes both a compression (where the particles are closer together) and a rarefaction (where the particles are spread apart). Therefore, one Hz corresponds to one complete cycle of a sound wave, which includes both a compression and a rarefaction.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The frequency of the sound wave determines the sound's...
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Pitch
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Loudness
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Length
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Clarity
Correct Answer
A. PitchExplanation
The frequency of a sound wave refers to the number of cycles or vibrations the wave completes in a given unit of time. This frequency directly correlates to the perceived pitch of the sound. Higher frequencies result in higher-pitched sounds, while lower frequencies result in lower-pitched sounds. Therefore, the correct answer is "Pitch."Rate this question:
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- 9.
The human ear can detect what range of frequencies?
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20-20,000 Hz
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20-2,000 Hz
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20-200,000 Hz
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20-200 Hz
Correct Answer
A. 20-20,000 HzExplanation
The human ear can detect a range of frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz. This range is commonly referred to as the audible frequency range. Frequencies below 20 Hz are considered infrasound and frequencies above 20,000 Hz are considered ultrasound, which are typically not audible to the human ear. The range of 20-20,000 Hz encompasses the frequencies of most sounds that we encounter in our daily lives, including speech, music, and environmental sounds.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The amplitude of a sound wave relates to the changes above and below atmospheric pressure. What is this change called?
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Displacement
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Frequency
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Pitch
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Transient
Correct Answer
A. DisplacementExplanation
The correct answer is Displacement. The amplitude of a sound wave refers to the maximum distance that particles in the medium (such as air) are displaced from their equilibrium position as the wave passes through. It is a measure of the intensity or loudness of the sound. So, the change in pressure above and below atmospheric pressure is called displacement.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Displacement is often quoted in
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DB
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Hz
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F0
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Fx
Correct Answer
A. DBExplanation
Displacement refers to the perceived loudness of a soundRate this question:
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- 12.
In general, the lower the amplitude, the louder the sound.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
The higher the amplitude, the louder the sound. Amplitude is physical, loudness is subjective.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What is the average hearing threshold for young, healthy ears?
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0dB
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-5dB
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5dB
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10dB
Correct Answer
A. 0dBExplanation
This is also the softest sound which can be heardRate this question:
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- 14.
Each increase of how many dB represents an approximate doubling of the perceived loudness of the sound?
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10dB
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5dB
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15dB
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20dB
Correct Answer
A. 10dBExplanation
Each increase of 10dB represents an approximate doubling of the perceived loudness of the sound. This is because the decibel scale is logarithmic, not linear. A 10dB increase means that the sound is 10 times more intense, which is equivalent to doubling the perceived loudness. Therefore, the correct answer is 10dB.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The outer ear consists of the
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Pinna
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External Auditory Meatus
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Oval Window
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Tympanic membrane
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Pars tensa
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Pars flaccida
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pinna
A. External Auditory MeatusExplanation
The correct answer is Pinna, External Auditory Meatus. The outer ear is the visible part of the ear and is responsible for collecting sound waves. The pinna, also known as the auricle, is the fleshy, cartilaginous part of the outer ear that helps to direct sound waves into the ear canal. The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is the tube-like structure that leads from the pinna to the middle ear. It is lined with hair and wax-producing glands to protect the ear from foreign objects and infections. Together, the pinna and external auditory meatus play a crucial role in the process of hearing.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Sound waves are collected by the
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Pinna
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External Auditory Meatus
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Tympanic Membrane
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Oval WIndow
Correct Answer
A. PinnaExplanation
They are collected by the pinna and then funnelled down through the EAM to the TMRate this question:
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- 17.
The External Auditory Meatus is lined with skin and leads from the bottom of the concha of the pinna to the tympanic membrane.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is indeed lined with skin. It is a tube-like structure that starts from the bottom of the concha of the pinna (the visible part of the ear) and extends to the tympanic membrane (eardrum). This lining of skin helps protect the ear canal and also plays a role in the production of earwax. Therefore, the statement provided is true.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Approximately how long is the external auditory meatus in adults?
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2.5cm
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1.5cm
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0.5cm
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3.5cm
Correct Answer
A. 2.5cmExplanation
The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal, is approximately 2.5cm long in adults. This is the passage that leads from the outer ear to the middle ear. It is responsible for transmitting sound waves to the eardrum, allowing us to hear.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What is the non-acoustic function of the outer ear?
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To protect against against assault and injury
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To increase the length of the inner ear
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To ensure alignment within the skull
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To monitor balance and proprioception
Correct Answer
A. To protect against against assault and injuryExplanation
The outer ear serves as a physical barrier that helps protect the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear from external harm. It consists of the pinna and the ear canal, which act as a shield, preventing foreign objects from entering the ear and potentially causing damage. Additionally, the shape and positioning of the outer ear help in localizing sound sources and enhancing sound reception, but this is not mentioned in the given options.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What are the acoustic characteristics and functions of the outer ear?
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To collect sound
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To increase sound pressure at the tympanic membrane by generating resonances
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To aid in sound localisation
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To aid in balance and proprioception
Correct Answer(s)
A. To collect sound
A. To increase sound pressure at the tympanic membrane by generating resonances
A. To aid in sound localisationExplanation
The outer ear has several acoustic characteristics and functions. Firstly, it helps to collect sound by acting as a funnel, directing sound waves towards the ear canal. Secondly, it increases sound pressure at the tympanic membrane by generating resonances, which helps in amplifying the sound. Thirdly, the outer ear aids in sound localization by helping to determine the direction and location of the sound source. Lastly, it also plays a role in balance and proprioception, helping us maintain our equilibrium and sense the position of our body in space.Rate this question:
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- 21.
How much of a boost does the pinna give?
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+5dB
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+7dB
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+10dB
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+20dB
Correct Answer
A. +5dBExplanation
The pinna is the outer part of the ear that helps to collect sound waves and direct them into the ear canal. It acts as a natural amplifier by boosting the sound by approximately 5dB. This boost in volume allows us to better perceive and locate sounds in our environment.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The outer ear is an acoustic cavity which resonates, and resonances of the pinna and meatus help to increase the sound pressure at the tympanic membrane. The peak of this pressure gain occurs at which frequency and approximates to how many dB?
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2-5k Hz; 15-20dB
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2-6k Hz; 10-20dB
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1-5k Hz; 15-20dB
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1-6k Hz; 10-20dB
Correct Answer
A. 2-5k Hz; 15-20dBExplanation
2-5k Hz; 15-20dB - therefore, human hearing is most sensitive at these frequencies!Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which are the two most important cues for sound localisation in people?
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Intensity differences at the two ears
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Timing differences at the two ears
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Pitch differences at the two ears
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Fundamental frequency differences at the two ears
Correct Answer(s)
A. Intensity differences at the two ears
A. Timing differences at the two earsExplanation
The two most important cues for sound localization in people are intensity differences at the two ears and timing differences at the two ears. Intensity differences refer to the difference in loudness of a sound reaching each ear, which allows the brain to determine the direction of the sound source. Timing differences, on the other hand, refer to the slight delay in the arrival of a sound at one ear compared to the other, which helps the brain determine the location of the sound source. These two cues work together to provide accurate sound localization.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The outer ear in sound localisation will catch more high frequency sounds easily from the front
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The outer ear, also known as the pinna, plays a crucial role in sound localization. Its unique shape and structure help in capturing and funneling sound waves into the ear canal. The shape of the pinna allows it to effectively amplify high-frequency sounds coming from the front, making it easier to locate the source of these sounds. This is because high-frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths and are more easily affected by the shape of the pinna. Therefore, the statement that the outer ear catches more high-frequency sounds easily from the front is true.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The outer ear in sound localisation helps us to determine if sounds come from below or above.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The outer ear plays a crucial role in sound localization. Its unique shape and position allow it to capture sound waves from different angles, enabling us to determine the direction from which a sound is coming. By comparing the slight differences in sound arrival time and intensity between the ears, our brain can accurately locate the source of the sound in three-dimensional space. This ability also helps us determine if sounds come from below or above, making the statement "The outer ear in sound localization helps us to determine if sounds come from below or above" true.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The outer ear will catch more low frequency sounds easily from the front
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
The outer ear will catch more HIGH frequency sounds easily from the frontRate this question:
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- 27.
How does the external ear assist in sound localisations?
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By producing spectral modulations of incoming sounds
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By changing the internal structure of the middle and inner ears to turn towards the sound
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By converting the incoming signal into information which the brain processes as sound
Correct Answer
A. By producing spectral modulations of incoming soundsExplanation
Because there is a reduction in the level of higher frequency sounds (3-6kHz region) that reach the tympanic membrane when the sound source is behind the ear, relative to when the level when the source is in front of the earRate this question:
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- 28.
Approximately how long is the tympanic membrane?
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8-10mm
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4-6mm
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6-10mm
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8-12mm
Correct Answer
A. 8-10mmExplanation
It is made up of a thin, fibrous layer covered by skin on the outside, and mucosa on the internal surfaceRate this question:
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- 29.
The fibrous layer of the tympanic membrane extends throughout the pars tensa, but not the pars flaccida.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The fibrous layer of the tympanic membrane extends throughout the pars tensa, which is the thicker and more rigid part of the eardrum. However, it does not extend into the pars flaccida, which is a smaller and more flexible part of the eardrum. This is why the statement is true, as the fibrous layer is present in one part of the eardrum but not the other.Rate this question:
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- 30.
How does the tympanic membrane receive the incoming sound?
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Vibrates back and forth with incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave
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Vibrates with the incoming compressions of the sound wave
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Tympanic membrane pushes inwards alongside the sound waves
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Tympanic membrane is forced outwards with the vibrations of the sound wave
Correct Answer
A. Vibrates back and forth with incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound waveExplanation
The correct answer is "Vibrates back and forth with incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave." The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, receives sound waves and vibrates in response to the incoming compressions and rarefactions of the sound wave. This vibration is then transmitted to the middle ear, where it is further amplified and transmitted to the inner ear for processing and interpretation.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The middle ear is an air-filled chamber which sits between the ear canal and the inner ear. How is it connected to the nasopharynx?
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Via the Eustachian tube
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Via the External Auditory Meatus
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Via the fluid-filled cochlea
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Via the bony labyrinth
Correct Answer
A. Via the Eustachian tubeExplanation
The middle ear is connected to the nasopharynx via the Eustachian tube. This tube acts as a pathway that allows air to flow between the middle ear and the back of the throat. It helps to equalize the pressure on both sides of the eardrum, ensuring that the eardrum can vibrate properly and allowing for normal hearing.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) can be found in which part of the ear?
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Middle ear
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Outer ear
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Inner ear
Correct Answer
A. Middle earExplanation
The auditory ossicles, including the incus, malleus, and stapes, are located in the middle ear. The middle ear is the space between the eardrum and the inner ear. These tiny bones transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) form a chain which connect the tympanic membrane with what?
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Oval window
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Bony labyrinth
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Eustachian tube
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Nasopharynx
Correct Answer
A. Oval windowExplanation
The auditory ossicles (incus, malleus, and stapes) form a chain that connects the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the oval window. The oval window is a membrane-covered opening that separates the middle ear from the inner ear. When sound waves enter the ear and cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate, these vibrations are transmitted through the auditory ossicles and ultimately to the oval window. The oval window then transfers these vibrations to the fluid-filled cochlea in the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain as sound.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which of the following are functions of the middle ear?
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To transform acoustic energy in air at the tympanic membrane to acoustic energy in the fluids of the cochlea
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To increase the efficiency of sound energy transfer to the cochlea by increasing the sound pressure at the oval window
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To collect the sound waves and amplify them enough to force the tympanic membrane to vibrate
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To distribute the sound waves up to the brain via the auditory nerve
Correct Answer(s)
A. To transform acoustic energy in air at the tympanic membrane to acoustic energy in the fluids of the cochlea
A. To increase the efficiency of sound energy transfer to the cochlea by increasing the sound pressure at the oval windowExplanation
The middle ear serves multiple functions in the process of hearing. One of its main functions is to transform acoustic energy in air at the tympanic membrane to acoustic energy in the fluids of the cochlea. This transformation allows the sound waves to be transmitted from the outer ear to the inner ear, where they can be processed and interpreted by the brain. Additionally, the middle ear helps increase the efficiency of sound energy transfer to the cochlea by increasing the sound pressure at the oval window. This amplification helps to enhance the perception of sound and improve overall hearing sensitivity.Rate this question:
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- 35.
By approximately how much less would we hear if we had no middle ear?
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28dB
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15dB
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12dB
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35dB
Correct Answer
A. 28dBExplanation
We would hear approximately 28dB less without a middle ear as the middle ear is essential for the transfer of sound waves from air to fluid. If the sound went straight from air to fluid, approximately 99% of the sound would be reflected away.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Approximately how much larger is the tympanic membrane than the stapes footplate (which bangs against the oval window)?
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17 times
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13 times
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25 times
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9 times
Correct Answer
A. 17 timesExplanation
Because the eardrum has a surface area approximately 17 times larger than the stapes footplate, the sound pressure at the footplate is 17 times greater than pressure at the eardrum due to the difference in surface area.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Approximately how much longer is the arm of the malleus compared with that of the incus?
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1.3 times
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3.5 times
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2.7 times
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4.1 times
Correct Answer
A. 1.3 timesExplanation
This results in a lever action that increases the force and produces a 1.3 factor increase in pressure at the oval window.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following is the correct general positioning of the Eustachian tube from the anterior wall of the tympanic cavity?
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Downwards, forwards, and medially
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Upwards, forwards, and medially
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Downwards, backwards, and medially
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Upwards, backwards, and medially
Correct Answer
A. Downwards, forwards, and mediallyExplanation
The Eustachian tube is positioned downwards, forwards, and medially from the anterior wall of the tympanic cavity. This positioning allows for the proper drainage of fluids from the middle ear into the nasopharynx, helping to maintain equal pressure on both sides of the eardrum.Rate this question:
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- 39.
When does the Eustachian tube close?
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Yawning
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Swallowing
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Talking
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Whispering
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On an aircraft
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Swimming
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Listening to headphones
Correct Answer(s)
A. Yawning
A. SwallowingExplanation
When closed, the Eustachian tube opens briefly, allowing air to enter the middle ear, replacing the air that has diffused into the mucous lining. This keeps the middle ear pressure the same as the atmospheric pressure.Rate this question:
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- 40.
What is the main function of the Eustachian tube?
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Aerate the middle ear so that pressure in the middle ear cavity remains the same as the atmospheric pressure
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Amplify sounds through to the fluid-filled cochlea
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Help maintain balance and proprioception
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Increase the pressure inside the inner ear cavity
Correct Answer
A. Aerate the middle ear so that pressure in the middle ear cavity remains the same as the atmospheric pressureExplanation
This allows the tympanic membrane to vibrate with the sound wavesRate this question:
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- 41.
Eustachian tube blockages are common, especially in children, and often lead to middle ear problems.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Eustachian tube blockages are common, especially in children, and often lead to middle ear problems. This means that the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 42.
At birth, the Eustachian tube is almost completely horizontal.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
At birth, the Eustachian tube is almost completely horizontal. This is because the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, is not fully developed in newborns. As a result, it is positioned more horizontally than in adults. This horizontal orientation can make it more difficult for fluid to drain from the middle ear, which can contribute to ear infections in infants and young children. As the child grows, the Eustachian tube gradually becomes more vertical, allowing for better drainage and reducing the risk of ear infections.Rate this question:
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- 43.
How long is the Eustachian tube at birth?
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17mm
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20mm
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23mm
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35mm
Correct Answer
A. 17mmExplanation
The Eustachian tube is a narrow passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. At birth, the Eustachian tube is approximately 17mm in length. As a child grows, the Eustachian tube also elongates, reaching its adult length of around 35mm. The length of the Eustachian tube is important for maintaining proper pressure and drainage in the middle ear, preventing issues such as ear infections.Rate this question:
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- 44.
How long is the Eustachian tube at 6 years?
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30mm
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23mm
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32mm
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35mm
Correct Answer
A. 30mmExplanation
The Eustachian tube is a small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. It helps equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere. The length of the Eustachian tube can vary depending on the age of the individual. At 6 years old, the length of the Eustachian tube is typically 30mm.Rate this question:
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- 45.
How long is the Eustachian tube as an adult?
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36mm
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27mm
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32mm
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30mm
Correct Answer
A. 36mmExplanation
The Eustachian tube in an adult is typically 36mm long. This tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps regulate pressure in the ear. It also allows for the drainage of fluids from the middle ear.Rate this question:
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- 46.
Growth of the Eustachian tube is rapid, and for those who experience middle ear problems, many get better after which age?
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6
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9
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4
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5
Correct Answer
A. 6Explanation
The growth of the Eustachian tube is rapid, and for those who experience middle ear problems, many get better after the age of 6. This suggests that as children grow older, their Eustachian tubes develop and function more effectively, reducing the likelihood of middle ear problems.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Which orifices are relatively wide in childhood?
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Pharyngeal
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Tympanic
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Nasal
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Aural
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Vestibuli
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pharyngeal
A. TympanicExplanation
During childhood, the orifices that are relatively wide are the Pharyngeal and Tympanic orifices. The pharyngeal orifice refers to the opening between the nasal cavity and the throat, while the tympanic orifice is the opening that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. These orifices are wider in childhood to accommodate the growth and development of the respiratory and auditory systems. As a person grows older, these orifices become narrower and more constricted.Rate this question:
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- 48.
At birth, the pharyngeal orifice is immediately above the soft palate. Where is the pharyngeal orifice in adults in relation to the soft palate?
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10mm above
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12mm below
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5mm above
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7mm above
Correct Answer
A. 10mm aboveExplanation
In adults, the pharyngeal orifice is located 10mm above the soft palate. This means that it is positioned higher in relation to the soft palate compared to its location at birth.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Where is the inner ear situated?
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Within the temporal bone
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Next to the sphenoid bone
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Between the temporal and sphenoid bones
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Behind the ethmoid bone
Correct Answer
A. Within the temporal boneExplanation
The inner ear is situated within the temporal bone. The temporal bone is a paired bone that forms part of the skull and is located on the sides and base of the skull. It houses various structures of the inner ear, including the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. These structures are responsible for hearing and balance.Rate this question:
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May 27, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 01, 2020Quiz Created by
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