What role do hair cells play in hearing?

Hair cells are crucial components of the auditory system, specifically located within the cochlea of the inner ear. Their primary function is to transduce sound vibrations into electrical signals. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the fluid in the cochlea to move. This movement bends the hair-like projections (stereocilia) on top of the hair cells. The bending of these stereocilia opens ion channels, leading to the generation of electrical impulses that are then sent to the brain via the auditory nerve. This process allows the brain to interpret different sounds, making hair cells essential for the perception of hearing.

The other choices do not accurately describe the function of hair cells: they do not amplify sound, filter noise, or store auditory memories. Thus, the role of hair cells as transducers of sound vibrations into electrical signals is fundamental to our ability to hear and interpret sounds.