# Explain how sound waves are detected by the human ear and converted into signals that travel to the brain.

> Eduqas A-Level Physics — 5.3 Electric and magnetic fields (A-Level only) · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The outer ear (pinna) collects/gathers the sound waves
2. Sound waves cause the ear drum to vibrate
3. Vibrations from the ear drum cause the ear bones to oscillate
4. Oscillations travel through the fluid in the cochlea
5. Cells in the cochlea convert the vibrations into electrical signals which are sent to the brain via the auditory nerve

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