What effect occurs when sensory hairs in the otolith organs bend during forward acceleration?

The bending of sensory hairs in the otolith organs during forward acceleration leads to a specific physiological effect. As the head accelerates forward, the otoliths—small calcium carbonate crystals—shift due to inertia, resulting in the bending of hair cells within the otolith organs. This deflection generates signals that inform the brain of the body's movement and orientation.

In this case, the correct effect is backward displacement. This displacement occurs because the otoliths lag behind due to their inertial properties, creating a sensation of being pushed backward relative to the direction of acceleration. This is interpreted by the brain as an indication of the direction of movement, helping to maintain balance and spatial orientation.

The other effects listed do not accurately represent what happens in this specific situation. Correct signals being sent to the brain is an outcome of this process, but the more precise description of the phenomenon is the backward displacement of the otoliths. Height perception alteration and increased spatial awareness are more complex concepts that are not directly related to the immediate mechanical response of the otolith organs during acceleration.