Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free COC Practice Questions and Study Guide.

The function of the cochlea is indeed to convert sound into electrical signals, making it critical for hearing. Within the cochlea, sound waves create fluid vibrations that stimulate hair cells situated along the basilar membrane. These hair cells then generate electrical impulses that are sent to the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to perceive sound.

While "transmits sound only" might seem plausible, it does not encompass the complete role of the cochlea in hearing. The cochlea goes beyond mere transmission; it actively engages in transforming mechanical sound waves into a format (electrical impulses) that the nervous system can process. This distinction is vital in understanding how sound perception works.

The other options do not accurately depict the function of the cochlea. It does not absorb sound waves or filter out background noise. Therefore, identifying the cochlea's role in converting sound into electrical signals is fundamental for appreciating its importance in the auditory system.