Page 82 - Communication across Cultures

Communication across Cultures

g. The stimulated hair cells convert the fluid motion into electrical signals, which
are then transmitted through the auditory nerve to the brain.
h. In the brain’s auditory cortex, these electrical signals are processed and interpret-
ed, resulting in the perception of different sounds, pitches, rhythms, and spatial loca-
tions of the sound sources.
Even though the human auditory system has a tremendous capacity to convey in-
formation, the human ear can only be sensitive in the range of frequency of 20 Hz. to
20000 Hz.
Sounds below the range of 20 Hz are known as infrasounds, which are typically felt
rather than heard. On the other end of the spectrum, sounds above the range of 20,000
Hz are called ultrasound and are also beyond the human hearing limit.
It’s worth noting that the sensitivity to different frequencies within the audible
range can vary between individuals and may decline with age or due to factors like ex-
posure to loud noises or certain medical conditions.
(3) Taste
Human taste refers to the sensory perception of flavors and the ability to distinguish
between various tastes. It plays a significant role in our enjoyment of food and beverag-
es, as well as in our ability to discern potentially harmful substances.
The sense of taste involves the interaction of taste receptors on the tongue and the
brain. Here’s a simplified step-by-step overview:
a. When we eat or drink, molecules from the food or beverage stimulate the taste
buds on our tongue.
b. Taste buds are clustered within small structures called papillae, which are scat-
tered across the surface of the tongue. Each taste bud consists of multiple taste receptor
cells.
c. The taste receptor cells are specialized to detect different tastes, including sweet,
sour, salty, bitter, and umami (savory). These taste qualities are primarily detected by
specific receptors on the taste receptor cells.
d. When the taste receptor cells are activated by the corresponding molecules, they
send electrical signals through sensory nerves, such as the facial, glossopharyngeal, and
vagus nerves.
e. The electrical signals travel to the brain, specifically to the gustatory cortex,
where they are processed and interpreted.
The human sense of taste allows us to perceive and differentiate various flavors.
While it is commonly believed that the average nonsmoker can distinguish around

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