Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test Related

Review Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test related questions and content

Which structure in the ear is responsible for hearing?

  • A. Cochlea
  • B. Semicircular canals
  • C. Ossicles
  • D. Eustachian tube
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.