SoundsField recordingsFrequenciesDecibelsInstrumentsGlossaryToolsLearn
  1. Home
  2. Glossary
  3. Hearing
  4. Greenwood function: Definition & Explanation
Hearing · Sound

Greenwood function

What is greenwood function? A clear definition from the hearing and sound section of our glossary, with 15 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Greenwood function

The Greenwood function correlates the position of the hair cells in the inner ear to the frequencies that stimulate their corresponding auditory neurons. Empirically derived in 1961 by Donald D. Greenwood, the relationship has shown to be constant throughout mammalian species when scaled to the appropriate cochlear spiral lengths and audible frequency ranges. Moreover, the Greenwood function provides the mathematical basis for cochlear implant surgical electrode array placement within the cochlea.

Terms mentioned above

Related terms

Frequently asked questions

What is Greenwood function?

The Greenwood function correlates the position of the hair cells in the inner ear to the frequencies that stimulate their corresponding auditory neurons. Empirically derived in 1961 by Donald D.

Sources & credits