The organ of Corti is a structure present in

Options

A. (a) external ear
B. (b) middle ear
C. (c) semicircular canal
D. (d) cochlea

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Structure of the Ear:**
- The ear is divided into three main parts: the external ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Each part has distinct structures and functions.

2. **Identifying the Location of the Organ of Corti:**
- The Organ of Corti is located within the cochlea, which is a part of the inner ear. The cochlea is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals.

3. **Functions of the Inner Ear Structures:**
- The semicircular canals, also part of the inner ear, are primarily involved in maintaining balance. In contrast, the cochlea's primary function is auditory transduction, which is the conversion of sound waves into electrical impulses.

4. **Locating the Organ of Corti:**
- The Organ of Corti is situated between two fluid-filled chambers in the cochlea: the scala vestibuli and the scala tympani. It is positioned along the cochlear duct.

5. **Function of the Organ of Corti:**
- The Organ of Corti acts as a receptor for hearing. It converts sound vibrations into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve for processing.

6. **Evaluating the Options:**
- Given the options:
- A) External ear - Incorrect
- B) Middle ear - Incorrect
- C) Semicircular canal - Incorrect
- D) Cochlea - Correct
- The correct answer is D) Cochlea, as the Organ of Corti is indeed located in the cochlea.

**Final Answer:**
The Organ of Corti is a structure present in the cochlea.

---