Unit 1.2 - Auditory System

Wavelength

The dimension of frequency determined by the wavelength of a sound wave, which influences the perceived pitch.

Amplitude

The amount of energy in a wave, determined by its height, which relates to perceived loudness.

Place theory

The theory that links the pitch we hear to the place where the cochlea's membrane is stimulated.

Frequency theory

The theory that the rate of nerve impulses traveling up the auditory nerve matches the frequency of a tone, enabling us to sense its pitch.

Volley theory

Explains how groups of neurons alternate firing in rapid succession to create a combined frequency for sounds above 1,000 waves/second.

Sound localization

The ability to determine the location of a sound based on differences in arrival time and intensity between the two ears.

Sensorineural hearing loss

Hearing loss caused by damage to the cochlea's receptor cells or auditory nerves; also called nerve deafness.

Conduction hearing loss

Hearing loss caused by damage to the mechanical system that conducts sound waves to the cochlea.

Pitch Perception

The process of determining the frequency of a sound wave, which allows us to perceive how high or low a sound is. This is explained by place theory, frequency theory, and volley theory.