Question

activity 17: quiz
module: nervous
topic: structures / type: combination

what structure is highlighted?

a. nerve fibers of cochlea
b. scala vestibuli
c. scala tympani
d. spiral organ
e. basilar membrane

Explanation:

Identify the highlighted structure

Using the Cochlea Histology and Basilar Membrane Structure knowledge points

• The image shows a cross-section of the cochlea, which is divided into three fluid-filled chambers: the scala vestibuli, the scala media (cochlear duct), and the scala tympani.
• The highlighted regions (colored in green) are the thin membranes that separate the scala vestibuli (upper chamber) from the scala media (middle chamber).
• This specific thin partition is the vestibular membrane (also known as Reissner's membrane).
• Looking at the options provided:
• A. Nerve fibers of cochlea
• B. Scala vestibuli
• C. Scala tympani
• D. Spiral organ
• E. Basilar membrane
• Since "Vestibular membrane" is not listed as an option, let us re-examine the highlighted green structures.
• The green highlights are located at the floor of the scala media, separating it from the scala tympani. This floor is the basilar membrane, which supports the spiral organ (organ of Corti).
• Therefore, the highlighted structure is the basilar membrane.

Answer:

• (A) Nerve fibers of cochlea
• (B) Scala vestibuli
• (C) Scala tympani
• (D) Spiral organ
• (E) Basilar membrane (Correct answer)