Mechanoreception (Hearing) - Ear Structures

Vocabulary flashcards covering key structures and their roles in human hearing, based on the provided lecture notes.

Pinna

The visible, cup-shaped part of the outer ear made of cartilage and skin.

Auditory canal

The tubular passageway in the outer ear that connects the auricle (outer part of ear) to the eardrum (tympanic membrane).

Tympanum (Eardrum)

Vibrates when sound waves hit it, converting sound energy from the air into mechanical vibrations.

Ossicles

Transfer and amplify sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, where they are converted to electrical signals sent to the brain for sound processing.

Oval window

Transmits vibrations from the middle ear ossicles into the fluid-filled inner ear.

Vestibular nerve

Sends information to the brain about head position and motion, which can contribute to motion sickness.