AP Psychology Practice Test

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Study for the AP Psychology Exam with a comprehensive quiz that includes flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question is accompanied by hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the primary function of the inner ear?

To aid in balance and spatial orientation.
To convert air vibrations into liquid waves.
To amplify low sounds and protect against loud sounds.
To transmit sound vibrations to the brain.

The correct answer is: To aid in balance and spatial orientation.

The primary function of the inner ear encompasses several critical processes, with balance and spatial orientation being one of its most important roles. The inner ear contains structures such as the vestibular system, which includes the semicircular canals and otolith organs. These structures are responsible for detecting changes in head position and motion, allowing for the maintenance of balance and coordination. While sound wave conversion and transmission are indeed significant functions of the inner ear—where sound is transformed into neural signals for the brain—this does not fully capture the primary role of the inner ear. The amplification and protection of sounds are functions primarily associated with the outer and middle ear. Thus, emphasizing balance and spatial orientation allows for a comprehensive understanding of the inner ear's critical role in overall sensory processing and coordination.