Theoretical approaches to the microphonics

Abstract

The cochlea microphonics have two components; the first component is very sensitive to lack of oxygen and disappears immediately upon the death of the animal; the second component is the smaller fraction (5–25 %) but persists after the death of the animal, and is anaerobic. This paper gives a simple model which can be applied to the understandings of the later part of the microphonic potential. Both perilymph and endolymph in the inner ear may be electrolyte solutions which will behave like homogeneous liquids. If, however, the dynamical reactions are taken in account, these reactions will be different for ions of different masses. As a result, the motion, say of the positive ions, may differ from that of the negative ions. This means that periodically changing electric charge densities will accompany the sound waves. Theoretical approaches to the microphonics in the cochlea are presented.