Frequency analysis in the cochlea and the traveling wave of von Békésy.
Certain experimental data are difficult to reconcile with von Békésy's traveling-wave concept as operative at low energy inputs; i.e., at threshold or near-threshold of hearing. These data, ranging from energy-input values to anatomical and psychoacoustic observations, indicate the possibility of alternative or additional modes of molecular transduction. One such mode is proposed, based on experimental evidence.
D000818:Animals; D001307:Auditory Perception; D001489:Basilar Membrane / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D055592:Biophysical Phenomena; D001703:Biophysics; D003051:Cochlea / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000502:physiology*; D006309:Hearing / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011571:Psychoacoustics