Q: Which equation represents the decibel (dB) level of a sound, given its intensity $$I$$ and reference intensity $$I_0$$?

$$dB = 10 \times \log_{10} \left( \frac{I}{I_0$} \right)$$

Question 1

Which structure in the external ear is primarily responsible for funneling sound waves into the auditory canal?

Accepted Answer

Auricle (pinna)

Question 2

A child presents with middle ear inflammation and hearing loss after a sore throat. What is the most likely diagnosis and the primary reason for hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

Otitis media; blocked sound conduction due to inflamed tympanic membrane

Question 3

Which auditory ossicle is directly attached to the tympanic membrane and transmits vibrations to the incus?

Accepted Answer

Malleus

Question 4

What is the function of the pharyngotympanic (auditory) tube in the middle ear?

Accepted Answer

Equalizes air pressure between middle ear and external environment

Question 5

Which fluid fills the bony labyrinth of the internal ear and is similar in composition to cerebrospinal fluid?

Accepted Answer

Perilymph

Question 6

A patient with gradual loss of hair cells in the cochlea is experiencing which type of deafness?

Accepted Answer

Sensorineural deafness

Question 7

Which part of the cochlea contains the spiral organ (organ of Corti) responsible for sound transduction?

Accepted Answer

Cochlear duct

Question 8

If the stapes cannot move freely due to otosclerosis, what is the most direct consequence?

Accepted Answer

Reduced transmission of sound vibrations to the oval window

Question 9

Which equation correctly relates the frequency $$f$$ and wavelength $$\lambda of a $$sound wave traveling at speed $$v$$?

Accepted Answer

$$v = f 	imes \lambda$$

Question 10

Exposure to amplified rock music at 120 dB or more can cause which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Severe hearing loss due to hair cell damage

Question 11

Which structure in the vestibular apparatus is responsible for detecting rotational acceleration?

Accepted Answer

Crista ampullaris

Question 12

A patient experiences vertigo, nausea, and vomiting due to a labyrinth disorder affecting the cochlea and semicircular canals. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Ménière’s Syndrome

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the process of sound transduction in the cochlea?

Accepted Answer

Deflection of stereocilia opens ion channels, allowing K$$^+$$ and Ca$$^{2+}$$ influx, triggering neurotransmitter release

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a function of the semicircular canals?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring static equilibrium

Question 15

Which equation represents the decibel (dB) level of a sound, given its intensity $$I$$ and reference intensity $$I_0$$?

Accepted Answer

$$dB = 10 	imes \log_{10} \left( \frac{I}{I_0$} ight)$$

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why the tympanic membrane cannot vibrate efficiently if pressures on both sides are not equal?

Accepted Answer

Pressure imbalance restricts membrane movement, distorting sound transmission

Question 17

Which of the following is a common cause of conduction deafness?

Accepted Answer

Impacted earwax blocking the external acoustic meatus

Question 18

During auditory processing, how does the brain localize the source of a sound?

Accepted Answer

By comparing relative intensity and timing of sound waves reaching both ears

Question 19

Which of the following is true regarding the normal range of sound amplitudes for human hearing?

Accepted Answer

0–120 dB

Question 20

A patient with nystagmus in the absence of rotational stimuli is most likely experiencing a pathology in which system?

Accepted Answer

Equilibrium (vestibular) system

The Special Senses: Hearing and Balance – Structure and Function of the Ear

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