'A' Level Medical Option Questions - The Ear
Q5.
(a) The graph shows the equal loudness curve for the threshold of hearing.
![](DIAGRAM3ANS.png)
(i) On the diagram sketch the equal loudness curve which has an intensity level of 120 dB at a frequency of 1000 Hz. (120 phon)
General shape flatter, but still dipping at approx the same frequency and passing through pont 120, 1000 ![](../../../../graphics/symbols/nuclides/ticksmall.png)
(ii) What is the main similarity between the two curves?
Both most sensitive at about 3000 Hz![](../../../../graphics/symbols/nuclides/ticksmall.png)
(2 marks)
(b) On the axes below draw the curves for:
![](DIAGRAM4ANS.png)
(i) age-related hearing loss and label it A,
see diagram ![](../../../../graphics/symbols/nuclides/ticksmall.png)
(ii) noise-induced hearing loss and label it B.
see diagram ![](../../../../graphics/symbols/nuclides/ticksmall.png)
(iii) What is the main difference between the two types of hearing loss?
Loss due to age increases steadily with frequency
whereas loss due to noise produces a sensorineural loss as a 'dip' at 4,000 Hz![](../../../../graphics/symbols/nuclides/ticksmall.png)
(4 marks)
(Total 6 marks)