How are hair cells in the cortex described?

Hair cells in the cortex, specifically referring to the sensory hair cells involved in processes such as hearing and balance within the inner ear, are characterized as elongated structures. This elongated shape allows them to effectively transduce mechanical vibrations into electrical signals, which are then sent to the brain for processing. The tapering form of hair cells is essential for their function, as it supports the distinct arrangement of stereocilia on top of these cells, enabling them to respond to sound waves or movement.

In contrast, other descriptions such as round, flattened, or cuboidal do not accurately capture the morphological characteristics of hair cells. Round cells typically indicate a more symmetrical shape, while flattened cells may refer to different types of epithelial cells. Cuboidal cells are characterized by a shape that has equal dimensions and are common in glandular tissues rather than in sensory pathways, making elongated the most appropriate descriptor for hair cells in this context.