<prompt> Depolarization of cochlea due to:Potassium influxPotassium effluxSodium influxSodium efflux  <response>: Ans: A Potassium influx Ref: Diseases of the Ear Nose and Throat by PE Dhingra 5th edn. 2010. Page 13 and 19Explanation:There exists a potential difference approx 125mv between the K rich endolymph 80mv and the inner hair cells -45mv.When the ion channels of the hair cells open, K is driven into the hair cells because of this potential difference and causes depolarization.This mechanism helps covert the mechanical energy of sound into electrical impulses.This gradient and energy for transduction is provided by the NaK ATPase pump in the stria vascularis. 