The place theory of hearing and the frequency theory are two theories that explain how we perceive pitch in sound.
1. The place theory suggests that different areas of the cochlea in the inner ear are responsible for different frequencies of sound. This means that specific locations along the cochlea are activated based on the pitch of the sound wave. For example, high-frequency sounds would stimulate specific areas closer to the beginning of the cochlea, while low-frequency sounds would stimulate areas further along.
2. On the other hand, the frequency theory proposes that the rate at which nerve impulses travel up the auditory nerve matches the frequency of a sound wave, thereby allowing us to perceive pitch. In this theory, the frequency of the sound wave directly corresponds to the firing rate of nerve impulses.
Given these explanations, the place theory is better at explaining high-frequency sounds because it can pinpoint the exact location in the cochlea that corresponds to the high pitch. For low-frequency sounds, the frequency theory is more effective since it focuses on the rate of nerve impulses matching the frequency of the sound wave.
Therefore, the correct answer to your question is:
D. high frequency
