In the context of the organization of the nervous system, what is the primary function of the semicircular canals in the human body?

• A. They transmit visual information from the retina to the brain.
• B. They detect rotational movements of the head and help maintain balance.
• C. They regulate the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
• D. They are responsible for processing auditory signals in the temporal lobe.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the semicircular canals as part of the vestibular system within the inner ear, which is crucial for balance and spatial orientation.
2. Understand that the semicircular canals are three fluid-filled tubes positioned roughly at right angles to each other, allowing detection of movement in three-dimensional space.
3. Recognize that when the head rotates, the fluid inside these canals moves, stimulating hair cells that send signals to the brain about the direction and speed of rotation.
4. Connect this sensory input to the brain's ability to maintain balance and coordinate movements, especially during head rotations.
5. Conclude that the primary function of the semicircular canals is to detect rotational movements of the head and help maintain balance, rather than processing visual, hormonal, or auditory information.