Equilibrium in the Inner Ear

Questions and Answers

Where are the equilibrium receptors located?

The equilibrium receptors are located in the vestibule and semicircular canals of the inner ear.

What are the two types of equilibrium?

Static Equilibrium and Dynamic Equilibrium.

Define Maculae.

Receptors for equilibrium in the vestibule of cochlea.

What are maculae composed of?

Composed of receptor hair cells embedded in a gel studded with otoliths. Signup and view all the answers

Define otoliths.

Tiny calcium stones. Signup and view all the answers

What do the otoliths do when the head moves?

As the head moves, the otoliths roll causing the gel to slide and pull the hair cells. Signup and view all the answers

What do hair cells do in static equilibrium?

The hair cells send the electrical signal to the cerebellum to make the body aware of the head's position. Signup and view all the answers

How are semicircular canals arranged?

Semicircular canals are arranged in the three planes of space. Signup and view all the answers

Describe Crista ampullaris.

Receptors for equilibrium in semicircular canals. Signup and view all the answers

Define cupula.

Hair cells covered by a gel-like cap. Signup and view all the answers

What does the cupula do when the head moves?

As the head moves, the cupula bends, stimulating hair cells to send the impulse to the cerebellum. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Equilibrium Receptors

Located in the vestibule and semicircular canals of the inner ear.

Types of Equilibrium

Static Equilibrium: Body is at rest.
Dynamic Equilibrium: Body is in motion.

Maculae

Receptors for equilibrium found in the vestibule of the cochlea.
Composed of receptor hair cells embedded in a gel matrix that contains otoliths.

Otoliths

Tiny calcium carbonate stones that are crucial for detecting changes in head position.

Function of Otoliths

When the head moves, otoliths roll and cause the gel to slide, which pulls on hair cells and triggers a response.

Hair Cells in Static Equilibrium

Hair cells convert head position into electrical signals sent to the cerebellum, informing the body of its orientation.

Semicircular Canals Arrangement

Canals are positioned in three spatial planes, enabling detection of various movement types.

Crista Ampullaris

Specialized receptors located within the semicircular canals that maintain equilibrium.

Cupula

A gel-like cap covering hair cells within the semicircular canals.

Function of Cupula

The cupula bends in response to head movements, stimulating the underlying hair cells to send impulses to the cerebellum.

Description

Test your understanding of equilibrium with these flashcards focused on Chapter 8.3. Learn about the receptors, types of equilibrium, and key definitions related to balance in the inner ear. Perfect for reviewing key concepts in anatomy and physiology.