Which theory best explains how we perceive low-pitched sounds?

• A. Frequency theory
• B. Trichromatic theory
• C. Opponent-process theory
• D. Place theory

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question is about how we perceive low-pitched sounds, which relates to auditory perception in psychology.
2. Step 2: Review the main theories of auditory perception: Frequency theory, Place theory, Trichromatic theory, and Opponent-process theory.
3. Step 3: Recall that Trichromatic theory and Opponent-process theory primarily explain color vision, not sound perception.
4. Step 4: Differentiate between Frequency theory and Place theory: Frequency theory suggests that the rate of nerve impulses matches the frequency of a sound wave, explaining low-pitched sound perception, while Place theory explains perception of high-pitched sounds based on where the cochlea is stimulated.
5. Step 5: Conclude that Frequency theory best explains how we perceive low-pitched sounds because it focuses on the firing rate of auditory neurons corresponding to sound frequency.