What auditory function do outer hair cells primarily perform?

Outer hair cells play a crucial role in the auditory system by enhancing hearing sensitivity. They are found in the cochlea, specifically in the organ of Corti, and their primary function is to amplify sound vibrations. This amplification is critical because it helps the inner hair cells, which are responsible for sending auditory signals to the brain, to detect softer sounds more effectively.

When sound vibrations enter the cochlea, the motion of the basilar membrane causes the outer hair cells to change shape, effectively amplifying the sound. This process improves the ability to hear faint noises and enhances overall auditory perception, making it easier for individuals to differentiate between various sounds and understand speech in noisy environments.

While inner hair cells send auditory information to the brain, outer hair cells focus on the amplification of sound rather than transmitting information. They do not play a direct role in balance, which is managed by the vestibular system. Therefore, the primary function of outer hair cells distinctly aligns with enhancing hearing sensitivity.