Correct option is B
Explanation-
(A) “During the transmission of sound waves through the middle ear, the movement of the head of stapes induces a piston like movement on the oval window.” - INCORRECT
Although the stapes does indeed move like a piston at the oval window, this alone does not convey the full functional significance in hearing transmission as described in the question — it’s considered technically imprecise or overgeneralized here.
(B) “The tympanic membrane functions as a resonator that reproduces the vibration of sound source.” - CORRECT
The tympanic membrane (eardrum) vibrates in response to sound waves, effectively reproducing the frequency and amplitude of the sound.
(C) “The sound pressure on the tympanic membrane is increased 1.3 times on the oval window by the lever system of malleus and incus.” - CORRECT
The malleus and incus act as a lever system, amplifying sound pressure by approximately 1.3 times.
(D) “The area of tympanic membrane is greater than that of the footplate of stapes, and hence sound pressure on tympanic membrane is increased on oval window.” - CORRECT
This area difference leads to a funneling effect, increasing pressure at the oval window due to the smaller area compared to the tympanic membrane (principle of impedance matching).
(E) “The contraction of tensor tympani muscle causes the manubrium of the malleus to be pulled outward.” - INCORRECT
Tensor tympani contraction pulls the malleus inward (medially), not outward — this is wrong.
(F) “The footplate of the stapes is pulled inward by the contraction of stapedius muscle.” - INCORRECT
The stapedius muscle contracts to stabilize the stapes and reduce its movement, pulling it outward, not inward, to dampen loud sounds. Hence, this is false.
Correct option b - B, C and D
