What basis does the place theory of pitch detection rely upon?

The place theory of pitch detection is based on the specific location along the basilar membrane within the cochlea of the inner ear that is activated by sound waves. According to this theory, different frequencies of sound cause different parts of the basilar membrane to vibrate. High-frequency sounds stimulate hair cells at the base of the membrane, while low-frequency sounds affect the apex. This spatially organized response to sound frequencies allows the brain to interpret pitch based on which area of the membrane is activated. Therefore, the basilar membrane is central to the place theory, making it the correct choice in understanding how we perceive different pitches in sounds.