Ear Functions

auricle

Direct sound waves into the ear canal

tympanic membrane

Convert sound waves in the air to mechanical motion in middle ear

ossicles

Carry the mechanical vibrations caused by sound waves to the inner ear

oval window

Transmit the mechanical vibrations of the ossicles to fluid waves in the inner ear

cochlea

House the structures necessary for converting fluid waves into nervous system signals

tectorial membrane

Moves in a wave-like manner when the fluid in the cochlea pulses in waves; rubs against hair cells

hair cells

Convert mechanical motion of tectorial membrane into action potentials (nervous system signals) that travel to the brain

vestibule & semicircular canals

Help to maintain balance and determine how the head is moving in space