Biology / Unit 12 Bio 2903 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Vestibular System: Utricle, Saccule, Semicircular Canals
Captions available
The idea
The vestibular system detects linear acceleration through the utricle and saccule, using gravity-pulled crystals to bend stereocilia, and detects angular acceleration through three semicircular canals.
In practice
Fluid shifting within the semicircular canals as the head turns bends stereocilia and signals rotation direction.
Where people slip
The semicircular canals detect changes in velocity, not velocity itself — steady motion produces no sensation once fluid settles.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
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