ANALYSIS OF BEKESY’S TRAVELLING WAVE THEORY

Jan Myjkowski*

ABSTRACT

This paper presents an analysis of the foundations of the travelling wave theory that pertain to the pathway a sound wave takes to reach the receptor. A critical assessment of the resonance of the longitudinal wave in the cochlear fluid with the transverse wave of natural vibrations of the basilar membrane is included. Amplification in the middle ear and the inner ear are subjected to analysis. Attention is drawn to energy conversions on the way to the receptor and the coding of information on each section of that pathway. A description of the mechanisms for receiving and transferring the information on a molecular and electron levels has not been included.

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