Ear anatomy

external ear

outer structures of the ear that collect sound

middle ear

the chamber between the eardrum and cochlea containing three tiny bones that concentrate the vibrations of the eardrum on the cochlea's oval window

inner ear

the innermost part of the ear, containing the cochlea, semicircular canals, and vestibule

cochlear nerve

monitors hearing receptors

semicircular canals

fluid-filled structures in the inner ear that are associated with the sense of balance

tympanic membrane

The eardrum. A structure that separates the outer ear from the middle ear and vibrates in response to sound waves.

auricle

-cartilaginous outside part of the ear

- channels sound waves into the external auditory canal

external auditory canal

canal-like passageway

ossicles

three tiny bones in the middle ear (auditory bones)

cochlea

a coiled, bony, fluid-filled tube in the inner ear through which sound waves trigger nerve impulses