Ear Anatomy and Physiology Study Guide

Mechanisms of Hearing

Step 1

sound waves are directed by the auricle into the external acoustic meatus, causing the tympanic membrane to vibrate

Mechanisms of Hearing

Step 2

Tympanic membrane vibration moves auditory ossicles; sound waves are amplified

Mechanisms of Hearing

Step 3

The stapes at the oval window generate pressure waves in the perilymph within the scala vestibuli

Mechanisms of Hearing

Step 4

Pressure waves cause the vestibular membrane to pressure wave formation in the endolymph within the cochlear duct an isplacement of a specific region of the basilar membrane. Hair cells in the spiral organ are distorted, initiating nerve signals in the cochlear branch

Mechanisms of Hearing

Step 5

The remaining pressure waves are transferred to the perilymph within the scala tympani and are absorbed as the round window bulges slightly