Balance

Question 1

Describe the semicircular canals

Answer 1

• three fluid filled loops arranged in each of the three dimensions
• responsible for rotational equilibrium
• as fluid in these canals moves, stereocilla inside canals are stimulated and send messages to the brain
• sometimes when we stop moving, fluid is still moving which is why we feel dizzy

Question 2

Describe the vestibule:

Answer 2

• made of utricle and saccule
• gravitational equilibrium
• contains calcium carbonate granules (otoliths)
• otoliths are in coupla (jelly) above hair cells
• when head moves back and forth gravity moves otoliths- movement stimulates the hair cells and sends information to the brain