Resonance in the Theory of Hearing

Abstract

This paper discusses issues concerning Békésy’s theory regarding the resonance between longitudinal waves in the cochlear fluid and the transverse natural vibrations of the basilar membrane coupled with the organ of Corti. The traveling-wave theory also relates to the accurate transmission and reception of speech-related information by the auditory receptor. Discrepancies are noted between experimental findings and the signal transmission times to the receptor predicted by Békésy’s theory. The paper describes the transmission path of complex tones to the receptor, involving resonance and the basilar membrane. The existence of mechanical amplification in the inner ear was critically evaluated.

Citation

Myjkowski Jan. Resonance in the Theory of Hearing. WebLog J Otolaryngol. wjot.2026.j2102. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23611392