Biophysical Research on the Cetacean'S Ear Bones

摘要

Certain physical properties of the ossicles of the middle ear in Odontocete Cetacea were studied in relation with the distinct perception of echolocation echoes and of the ultrasonic frequencies which they include. The research was made in comparison with other species, aquatic, amphibious, terrestrial and flying, which employ, or do not employ, sonar systems. Measurements were made for the following points: density, mineral analysis, speed of sound propagation, X-ray diffraction patterns, microradiography and electron microscopy, at once on different ossicles, and in comparison with cranial bones. (Author)