Question

1. what does the cochlea do?

transmit sound vibration to the ear drum
convert soundwaves into electrical signals
maintain balance
filter out dirt and foreign objects

Explanation:

The cochlea is a part of the inner ear. Its main function is to convert sound waves (mechanical energy) into electrical signals that can be sent to the brain via the auditory nerve. The other options: transmitting sound vibrations to the eardrum is more related to structures like the ear canal and ossicles (malleus, incus, stapes). Maintaining balance is the role of the vestibular system (semicircular canals, etc.). Filtering out dirt and foreign objects is a function of parts like the ear canal's cerumen (earwax) production to some extent but not the cochlea.

Answer:

convert soundwaves into electrical signals