Neurophysiology and special senses: sound localisation: practice question

A Physiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Physiology · Neurophysiology and special senses: sound localisation

Sample item

Which brainstem structure first compares input from the two ears to localise a sound using small differences in timing and intensity?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Superior olivary complex

Cochlear nuclei receive input from one ear, whereas the superior olivary complex is the first to receive input from both ears. It compares interaural time and level differences, which allows localisation of sound in the horizontal plane.

Option by option

  • A. Medial geniculate body

    The medial geniculate body is the thalamic relay to the auditory cortex.

  • B. Inferior colliculus

    The inferior colliculus integrates ascending auditory information at a later stage.

  • C. Cochlear nuclei

    Cochlear nuclei receive monaural input and do not compare the two ears.

  • D. Superior olivary complex (correct)

    Correct. The superior olivary complex is the first site of binaural comparison.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Physiology question

What is the answer to this Physiology question?

The best answer is D, Superior olivary complex. Cochlear nuclei receive input from one ear, whereas the superior olivary complex is the first to receive input from both ears.

Why is "Medial geniculate body" not the answer?

The medial geniculate body is the thalamic relay to the auditory cortex.

Why is "Inferior colliculus" not the answer?

The inferior colliculus integrates ascending auditory information at a later stage.

Why is "Cochlear nuclei" not the answer?

Cochlear nuclei receive monaural input and do not compare the two ears.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Neurophysiology and special senses: sound localisation in Physiology. It compares interaural time and level differences, which allows localisation of sound in the horizontal plane.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Neurophysiology and special senses: sound localisation?

For each system, sketch the key graph (pressure–volume loop, oxygen dissociation curve, nephron handling) and explain it aloud. Then use the flashcards and the other Physiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.