Low-frequency sounds (below approximately 1500 Hz) are localised primarily by comparing arrival times at the two ears. Which relay nucleus performs this computation?
- A Medial geniculate body
- B Inferior colliculus
- C Medial superior olive ✓
- D Dorsal cochlear nucleus
Correct answer: C. Medial superior olive
Explanation
The medial superior olive contains neurons arranged as coincidence detectors that compare the interaural time difference of low-frequency signals arriving via both cochlear nuclei. Interaural intensity differences, useful for high frequencies shadowed by the head, are computed mainly in the lateral superior olive. The inferior colliculus integrates localisation information, and the medial geniculate body relays it to auditory cortex without performing the primary binaural computation.
Reference: Kandel Principles of Neural Science, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.