The Human ear

Gr.12 Topic test 2023

SECTION A
Question 1
1.1 Various options are provided as possible answers to the following questions. Choose the
answer and write only the letter (A to D) next to the question number (1.1.1 to 1.1.3) in the
ANSWER BOOK, e.g. 1.1.4 D.
.
QUESTIONS 1.1.1 AND 1.1.2 REFER TO THE DIAGRAM BELOW SHOWING THE
STRUCTURE OF THE HUMAN EAR.

1.1 Which part sends vibrations to the ossicles?

A 3
B 1
C 4
D 5

1.2 Which part maintains equal pressure on either side of the tympanic
membrane?

A 4
B 3
C 2
D 1

1.3 Grommets may be used in the treatment of …

A astigmatism

B cataracts.

C middle ear infections.

D long-sightedness. (3 x 2) (6)
1.2 Provide the correct biological term for each of the following descriptions. Write only the term
next to the question number (1.2.1 – 1.2.4)

1.2.1 The open passage through which sound waves travel to the middle ear
1.2.2 Inflammation and infection of the middle ear which causes pressure on the eardrum
1.2.3 The outer portion of the external ear: sound travels through the outer ear to the ear
canal
1.2.4 Fluid-filled structures in the inner ear that detect movement and function as balance
organs

(4)
[10]

SECTION B
Question 2
The diagram below represents a part of the human ear.

2.1 Name the part of the brain that receives impulses from:

(a) Parts A and B (1)

(b) Part C (1)

2.2 Describe how the receptors in part A are involved in maintaining balance when
there are changes in the speed and direction of movement of the head. (4)

2.3 A grommet is a small device that allows the air to move into and out of the middle
ear. This prevents pressure build-up in the middle ear.
Explain how the use of grommets in the treatment of middle-ear infections prevents (4)
hearing loss.
(10)
Question 3
TWO types of hearing loss occur in humans:
 Conductive hearing loss – occurs when sound vibrations cannot be conducted through
the outer and middle ear
 Sensorineural hearing loss – occurs when sound waves in the inner ear are not
converted into nerve impulses or when the impulses cannot be transmitted to the brain

The diagram below represents the human ear.

3.1 Give ONLY the LETTER of TWO structures in the diagram of the ear that, when
damaged, would result in the following:
(a) Conductive hearing loss (2)
(b) Sensorineural hearing loss (2)

3.2 State ONE function of:

(a) Part H (1)

(b) The receptors found in part E (1)

3.3 Explain why a build-up of ear wax at part B may result in temporary hearing loss. (2)

3.4 What are the functions of structure A? (2)

(10)
[20]
[30]