In the context of cell signaling, what is the effect of stimulating a variety of hair cells simultaneously?

• A. It causes all hair cells to send identical signals regardless of their location.
• B. It prevents any action potentials from being generated.
• C. It increases the range and complexity of signals transmitted to the nervous system.
• D. It leads to the inhibition of signal transmission to the brain.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of hair cells in cell signaling: Hair cells are specialized sensory cells found in structures like the inner ear. They detect mechanical stimuli (e.g., sound waves or movement) and convert them into electrical signals that are transmitted to the nervous system.
2. Recognize that stimulating multiple hair cells simultaneously means activating different hair cells that may be located in various regions of the sensory organ. Each hair cell is tuned to respond to specific frequencies or types of stimuli.
3. Consider the diversity of signals generated: When multiple hair cells are stimulated, they produce a variety of electrical signals based on their individual responses to the stimuli. This increases the range and complexity of information sent to the nervous system.
4. Understand the implications for the nervous system: The nervous system integrates these diverse signals to interpret the sensory input, such as distinguishing different sounds or detecting movement in multiple directions.
5. Conclude that simultaneous stimulation of hair cells enhances the sensory system's ability to process complex information, rather than sending identical signals, preventing action potentials, or inhibiting signal transmission.