Question

The structure that helps a person to maintain his balance is

• A. Malleus
• B. Eustachian tube
• C. Cochlea
• D. Semicircular canals

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Semicircular canals

D. Semilunar canals

Reason: The three semicircular canals lie at the right angle to each other in the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear. This is the component of the bony labyrinth and is filled with endolymph.

This structure can sense the change in movement (acceleration or deceleration) or position. The mechanism includes movement of cupula in response to movement of endolymph within the canal causing the bending of cilia to generate the nerve impulse.

The size of the semicircular canals is correlated with their type of locomotion among the species of mammals. Specifically, species that are agile and have fast, jerky locomotion have larger canals relative to their body size than those that move more cautiously.

So the correct option is D.