What does the term "auditory" refer to?

The term "auditory" is specifically associated with hearing. It pertains to the processes and functions involved in the perception of sound. This includes how we detect, interpret, and respond to auditory stimuli, such as speech and music. The auditory system encompasses all aspects of hearing, from the outer ear that captures sound waves to the brain, which processes these signals.

The other terms described in the options relate to different sensory and physiological processes: seeing is associated with vision, influenced by the visual processing centers in the brain; muscles are linked to the muscular system and movement; and thinking pertains to cognitive processes that involve reasoning and understanding. Understanding that "auditory" pertains specifically to hearing helps clarify its role in the broader context of sensory perception.