Asked by Ashleigh Delport on Apr 29, 2024

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What substance will displace the cupula during rotational equilibrium?

A) fluid within the semicircular canal
B) fluid within the utricle
C) the otoliths within the semicircular canal
D) the otoliths within the vestibule
E) fluid within the auditory tube

Semicircular Canal

One of three half-circle-shaped canals of the vertebrate inner ear; contains sensory receptors for rotational equilibrium.

Cupula

A gelatinous structure in the vestibular system of the inner ear, involved in sensing rotational movements.

Otoliths

Small, calcium carbonate structures located in the inner ear of vertebrates, crucial for balance and sensing linear accelerations.

  • Understand the concepts of rotational and gravitational equilibrium and the factors affecting them.
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Nicole RitiratoMay 01, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
During rotational equilibrium, the fluid within the semicircular canal moves in response to the movement of the head. This movement displaces the cupula, which is the gelatinous structure within the canal that contains hair cells. The displacement of the cupula leads to depolarization or hyperpolarization of the hair cells and the generation of action potentials that are sent to the brain via the vestibular nerve.