Which of the following statements about the cochlea is true?

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped, fluid-filled structure in the inner ear that plays a crucial role in hearing. It converts sound waves into nerve impulses that are sent to the brain, allowing us to perceive sounds. The primary function of the cochlea is indeed to transmit sound. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the fluid within the cochlea to move, which in turn stimulates hair cells that convert those mechanical movements into electrical signals for the auditory nerve.

In contrast, other options don't accurately describe the function of the cochlea. For instance, balance is primarily managed by the vestibular system rather than the cochlea. Furthermore, sensations like taste are related to taste buds on the tongue, and earwax production is related to glands in the external ear canal, not the cochlea. These clarifications help define the unique role of the cochlea in the auditory system, reinforcing that its primary role is sound transmission.