Distinction Between Frequency and Place Theory in Auditory Perception

Hard Unit 3: Sensation & Perception Auditory System

In the study of the auditory system, various theories have been proposed to explain how we perceive pitch. One of the most well-known is the place theory, which suggests that different frequencies produce vibrations at different locations along the cochlea. However, another critical theory, known as the frequency theory, offers an alternative perspective on how we hear pitches, especially low-frequency sounds.

Which of the following statements best describes a core distinction between the frequency theory and the place theory?

The frequency theory states that sound waves vibrate the entire cochlear membrane, while the place theory specifies that different sounds stimulate different areas of the cochlea.

The frequency theory is focused on high-pitched sounds, while place theory only accounts for low-pitched sounds.

The frequency theory explains how we perceive sound intensity, whereas place theory only explains pitch perception.

The frequency theory suggests that the rate of neural impulses corresponds to the frequency of a sound wave, while place theory indicates that the specific location of stimulation along the cochlea determines perceived pitch.

Place theory is supported solely by auditory nerve damage, while frequency theory is demonstrated through the phenomenon of sound localization.

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