The function of the basilar membrane is most similar to that of the _____ in vision.

• A. cornea
• B. optic nerve
• C. lens
• D. retina

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of the basilar membrane in the auditory system. The basilar membrane is a structure in the cochlea that plays a critical role in detecting sound frequencies. It vibrates in response to sound waves, with different regions of the membrane responding to different frequencies, allowing the brain to interpret pitch.
2. Compare the function of the basilar membrane to structures in the visual system. The basilar membrane's role in detecting and processing sound frequencies is analogous to a structure in the eye that detects and processes light signals.
3. Review the function of the retina in vision. The retina is a layer of cells at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells (rods and cones). These cells detect light and convert it into electrical signals, which are sent to the brain via the optic nerve for interpretation.
4. Analyze the similarity between the basilar membrane and the retina. Both structures are responsible for sensory detection and signal transduction in their respective systems. The basilar membrane detects sound frequencies, while the retina detects light and color.
5. Conclude that the basilar membrane is most similar to the retina in vision because both serve as the primary sensory detection and processing structures in their systems.