For 10 points, name this spiral-shaped part of the inner ear, responsible for transforming sound waves into electrical signals for the brain.
Although this structure is divided into three parts, two are connected via the helicotrema. These two parts contain a fluid with a high concentration of sodium, known as paralymph, but the middle structure's fluid has a high concentration of potassium instead and is known as endolymph. This middle section, known as the scala media, contains hairs known as stereocilia, as well as the all-important Organ of Corti. The whole structure wraps around the modiolus, giving it its name which comes from the Latin for "snail." For 10 points, name this spiral-shaped part of the inner ear, responsible for transforming sound waves into electrical signals for the brain.
Although this structure is divided into three parts, two are connected via the helicotrema.
Cochlea