SPIRAL ORGAN Meaning and
Definition
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The spiral organ, also known as the organ of Corti, is a delicate and complex structure found within the cochlea of the inner ear. Responsible for the transduction of sound stimuli into electrical signals, the spiral organ plays a pivotal role in the auditory system.
Situated within the bony labyrinth of the cochlea, the spiral organ rests upon the basilar membrane, a thin and flexible structure that runs the length of the cochlea. The spiral organ is composed of various types of specialized cells that work in coordination to convert sound waves into electrical impulses.
At the core of the spiral organ lie hair cells, which are essential for auditory transduction. These hair cells possess numerous tiny hair-like projections called stereocilia that are arranged in rows. Above the hair cells, a structure known as the tectorial membrane extends over them. As sound vibrations pass through the cochlea, they cause the basilar membrane to move, resulting in movement of the hair cell stereocilia. This mechanical stimulation generates electrical signals that get transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve.
The spiral organ's intricate structure allows for precise frequency selectivity, enabling the perception of different pitches and tones. Its location within the cochlea and its ability to convert sound vibrations into electrical impulses make the spiral organ an indispensable component of the auditory system.
Common Misspellings for SPIRAL ORGAN
- apiral organ
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- spidal organ
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- spital organ
Etymology of SPIRAL ORGAN
The word "Spiral Organ" refers to the cochlea, a crucial auditory structure in the inner ear. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Spiral: The term "spiral" originates from the Latin word "spira", meaning "a coil" or "a twist". It can be traced back to the Greek word "speira", which also signifies "a twist" or "a coil". The spiral shape of the cochlea, resembling a coiled structure, inspired the use of the term "spiral" to describe this organ.
2. Organ: The word "organ" comes from the Latin term "organum", which refers to a musical instrument or a tool used for a specific purpose. In the context of biology, an "organ" typically denotes a specialized structure within an organism having a specific function.
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