Final answer:
The correct answer is b) Base. The basilar membrane is responsible for detecting different wave frequencies at different regions of the membrane. The base responds best to high frequencies, while the apex responds best to low frequencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is b) Base.
The basilar membrane is the thin membrane in the cochlea that plays a crucial role in hearing. It is responsible for detecting different wave frequencies (pitches) at different regions of the membrane. The base of the basilar membrane responds best to high frequencies, while the apex responds best to low frequencies. This is because the base is narrower and stiffer compared to the apex.