The spiral organ is located in the_______of the internal ear.
(a) utricle
(b) bony labyrinth
(c) vestibule
(d) cochlea

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the anatomy of the internal ear, which consists of three main parts: the vestibule, semicircular canals, and cochlea.
2. Recall that the spiral organ, also known as the organ of Corti, is the sensory receptor for hearing.
3. Identify that the organ of Corti is located within the cochlea, which is a spiral-shaped structure specialized for detecting sound vibrations.
4. Eliminate other options: the utricle is part of the vestibule involved in balance, the bony labyrinth is the rigid outer wall of the inner ear, and the vestibule is the central part connecting the cochlea and semicircular canals.
5. Conclude that the correct location of the spiral organ is the cochlea.

Key Concepts

Spiral Organ (Organ of Corti)

The spiral organ, also known as the organ of Corti, is the sensory receptor for hearing. It contains hair cells that convert sound vibrations into nerve impulses. This organ is essential for detecting sound frequencies and is located within a specific part of the inner ear.

Cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped, bony structure in the inner ear responsible for hearing. It houses the spiral organ and fluid-filled chambers that transmit sound vibrations. The cochlea transforms mechanical sound waves into electrical signals sent to the brain.

Internal Ear Anatomy

The internal ear consists of the bony labyrinth, which includes the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. Each part has distinct functions: the cochlea for hearing, the vestibule and semicircular canals for balance. Understanding these structures helps locate the spiral organ accurately.