Auditory Perception: Place vs. Frequency Theory

Very Hard Unit 3: Sensation & Perception Auditory System

In the study of auditory perception, researchers have identified various theories to explain how humans perceive pitch. Two of the most notable theories are the Place Theory and the Frequency Theory. Place Theory posits that different frequencies of sound stimulate different places along the basilar membrane in the cochlea, while Frequency Theory suggests that the rate of neural impulses traveling up the auditory nerve matches the frequency of a tone, enabling pitch perception. Considering these two theories, which of the following statements about auditory perception is most consistent with the principles of both theories?

The perception of pitch is solely determined by the amplitude of sound waves.

Low-frequency sounds primarily stimulate the apex of the cochlea.

The combined activation of both high and low frequencies results in a composite perception of pitch.

High-frequency sounds travel further along the basilar membrane than low-frequency sounds.

Both theories equally account for the perception of complex tones.

Hint

Submitted19.6K

Correct14.2K

% Correct72%