Abstract
In order to clear the function of the otolith organs, experimental studies were made of the electromyogram on the reflex and action potentials of the utricular nerve to the linear acceleration, the electronmicroscopical fine structure, and the anatomical three-dimensional structure in the cranium.
On the basis of these studies, the following conclusions were obtained:
1) the saccular and utricular macula will form a quarter of the entire area of the surface of an ovoid body from a viewpoint of the structural function.
2) they receive the linear acceleration perpendicular to their surface, pressure and pulling, especially the former being more effective.
3) and they work through mutual co-operation to receive linear acceleration from all directions.
