The Ear: Functions & Diagrams

Tympanic membrane

• “Ear drum”

• Vibrates due to sound waves

Ossicles

• Bones of the middle ear

• Amplify vibrations at the oval window

Middle Ear

• “Tympanic cavity”

• Equalizing pressure

Vestibular Nerve

• Sends information to the brain regarding balance

Auditory/Cochlear Nerve

• Sends information to the brain regarding sounds

Semi-circular Canals

• Detect changes in dynamic equilibrium

Cochlea

• Organ of hearing, contains hair cells

Eustachian Tube

• Equalizes pressure

Round Window

• “Pressure valve”

• Change in shape in response to oval-window

Oval Window

• Vibrates due to the ossicles

Auditory Canal

• Carries soundwaves towards the tympanic membrane

Pinna

• Funnels and amplifies sound

Static Equilibrium

• Knowing where you are when not in motion

  • Includes the utricle and the saccule

Dynamic Equilibrium

• Knowing where you are when in motion

  • Includes the ampulla