Understanding Human Senses and Their Mechanisms

These flashcards cover the key concepts and terminology related to the mechanisms of human senses as discussed in the lecture.

Auditory Process

The mechanism by which sound waves are transformed into neural impulses through the ear structures.

Cochlea

A snail-shaped organ in the inner ear filled with fluid that stimulates hair cells in response to sound.

Eardrum

Also known as the tympanic membrane, it vibrates when sound waves hit it, transmitting sound to the inner ear.

Olfactory Bulb

The part of the brain that processes smells received from the nasal cavity.

Thalamus

The brain region that integrates sensory inputs except for smell.

Sweet, Sour, Bitter, Salty

Four primary taste sensations identified on the human tongue.

Umami

The fifth taste sensation, associated with savory flavors.

Pressure Waves

Movements of air molecules that constitute sound waves.

Somatosensory Cortex

The brain area that processes sensory information from the skin and other parts of the body.

Pinna

The outer part of the ear that collects sound waves and directs them into the ear canal.