The shearing force that bends the tips of the inner hair cells in response to movement of the basilar membrane arises from the

A) linkage between the hair cells and the tectorial membrane.
B) mechanical linkage between the hair cells and the tympanic membrane.
C) movement of the round window.
D) movement of the hair cells through the tectorial membrane.
E) movement of fluid past the tips of the hair cells.

Answer: E
Rationale: The shearing force that bends the tips of the inner hair cells in response to movement of the basilar membrane arises from the movement of fluid past the tips of the hair cells.