AP Psych Unit 2 | Sensation: Hearing

Transduction

Hair cells in the cochlea convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that are sent to the brain.

Wavelength

The distance between sound wave peaks. Shorter wavelengths mean higher-pitched sounds, while longer wavelengths mean lower-pitched sounds.

Amplitude

The measure of the intensity or loudness of a sound wave, represented by the height of its peaks. Greater amplitude corresponds to louder sounds, while lower amplitude indicates softer sounds.

Pitch perception

The brain's interpretation of the frequency of sound waves, determining whether a sound is high or low in tone. Higher frequencies are perceived as higher pitches, while lower frequencies are perceived as lower pitches.

Place theory

Idea that different parts of the inner ear detect different sound frequencies. High pitches are sensed near the entrance, low pitches near the end.

Frequency theory

A theory of pitch perception proposing that the frequency of a sound wave directly corresponds to the rate at which auditory nerve fibers fire. Higher frequency sounds lead to faster firing rates, resulting in higher perceived pitches.

Volley theory

A theory of pitch perception proposing that groups of auditory neurons fire in rapid succession, or "volleys", to encode the frequency of sounds above 1000 Hz. This allows the brain to perceive pitches that exceed the firing rate of individual neurons.

Sound Localization

The brain's ability to determine the location of a sound source in space. It relies on cues such as differences in arrival time and intensity between the ears, as well as spectral cues, to accurately locate sounds.

Conduction deafness

Hearing impairment caused by problems with the outer or middle ear, such as damage to the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear bones. It typically results in difficulty hearing soft sounds and can often be treated medically or surgically (temporary).

Sensorineural deafness

Hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. It results in difficulty hearing soft sounds and understanding speech, and is often permanent. Common causes include aging, exposure to loud noise, and certain medical conditions.