Abstract

The tuning curve of the cochlea measures how large an input is required to elicit a given output level as a function of the frequency. It is a fundamental object of auditory theory, for it summarizes how to infer what a sound was on the basis of the cochlear output. A simple model is presented showing that only two elements are sufficient for establishing the cochlear tuning curve: a broadly tuned traveling wave, moving unidirectionally from high to low frequencies, and a set of mechanosensors poised at the threshold of an oscillatory (Hopf) instability. These two components suffice to generate the various frequency-response regimes which are needed for a cochlear tuning curve with a high slope.

Explore this paper’s authors, topics and related work.

Building this map preview

BZPEER is loading the nearby papers, people, topics and institutions for this page.

Reviews 0

Write a reviewWrite

No reviews yet.

Discussion 0

Add a commentWrite

No comments yet.