Balance

Step on the unsteady platform, find the balance and let go of the handle to start the chronometer. Once the platform is swung to the side the time will stop. Sensing the position and motion of the body in order to maintain balance is enabled by the inner ear, which is not just the organ of hearing. The vestibular system (organ of balance) in the inner ear consists of the oblong utricle and the globular saccule, by means of which we perceive our position, and three semicircular ducts through which we sense motion or acceleration. The ducts are filled with fluid which moves during head movements and bends the fine hairs of the hair cells. These cells detect changes in the flow of the liquid at the beginning and the end of the duct. The fibres of the nerve cells then transmit information on the position and movement of the head to the brain