Question

the ________ states that the firing rate of neurons in the auditory nerve matches the frequency of the sound wave.
a. frequency theory
b. place theory
c. volley principle
d. auditory principle

please select the best answer from the choices provided
a
b
c
d

Explanation:

Identify the key definition in the question

The question asks for the theory stating that the firing rate of neurons in the auditory nerve matches the frequency of the sound wave.

Evaluate the given options

• frequency theory: Proposes that the frequency of the auditory nerve's impulses corresponds directly to the frequency of a tone, allowing us to detect its pitch.
• place theory: Proposes that different sound frequencies stimulate different locations along the basilar membrane.
• volley principle: Explains how groups of neurons can alternate firing to achieve a combined rate that matches higher frequencies.
• auditory principle: Not a standard psychological theory of pitch perception.

Select the correct option

The definition matches the frequency theory of pitch perception.

Answer:

• (A) frequency theory (Correct answer)
• (B) place theory
• (C) volley principle
• (D) auditory principle