What is the main function of the Organ of Corti in the cochlea?

The main function of the Organ of Corti is to convert mechanical vibrations caused by sound waves into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. The Organ of Corti contains specialized hair cells that respond to the movement of the fluid within the cochlea, which occurs when sound enters. These hair cells bend in response to the fluid movement, leading to the generation of electrical impulses. These impulses travel along the auditory nerve to the brain, where they are processed as sound.

This function is critical because it represents the first step in the auditory pathway, transforming physical sound waves into a form that our brains can understand. While the cochlea's structure is indeed supported by various structures and sound vibrations may be amplified elsewhere in the auditory system, the unique ability of the Organ of Corti to perform this conversion process makes it essential for hearing.