The Transfer of Energy across the Cochlea
Abstract
Two concepts concerning different aspects of cochlear functions are in an apparent conflict: the pressure-wave concept (which maintains that the acoustic energy entering the cochlea by the oval window must leave in toto by the round window) and the traveling-wave concept of Bekesy. If the latter would really entail the progression and dissipation of energy in the direction of the Helicotrema (according to the common definition of wave travel), this energy would have to be diverted from the pressure wave. The dilemma is solved by consideration of fluid motion in cochlear models. Energy is transferred from the vestibular scala across the partition to the tympanic scala. In this process the partition responds to the velocity of the fluid motion. The latter fact accounts for the shape of the envelope over the traveling waves. The finding that the amplitude of fluid motion in both scalae decreases in a fenestro-apical direction is accounted for by the Reciprocity Theorem of Helmholtz.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1959
- Accession Number
- ADA036164
Entities
People
- Juergen Tonndorf