1. When excessively stimulated, any sensory receptor will convey sensations that are interpreted as pain. For example, a bright flash of light or a loud sound is painful. Explain the adaptive value of pain. Where in the brain does pain perception occur?

2. A displaced contact lens from the surface of the cornea is irritating, but it is not of clinical concern because it will stay in contact with the bulbar conjunctiva. Considering the anatomy of the eye, why can’t a contact lens be displaced into the orbit?

3. Located in the dense petrous part of the temporal bone, the structures of the inner ear are well protected. Discuss other features of the ear that protect the sense of hearing.

4. Define myringotomy and explain why this procedure is usually successful in treating children who suffer recurring middle-ear infections. (To help you answer this question, consider the advantage of punching two holes in an oil can--one across from the other--as opposed to punching a single hole.)

5. A child is referred to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist because of a ruptured tympanic membrane sustained during an explosion. In testing for hearing loss, the physician has the child respond to the sound of a vibrating turning fork. Interestingly, the sound is most clearly heard when the vibrating tuning fork is placed on the mastoid process of the temporal bone. What is the explanation for this?

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