Ear Functions PLTW MI, 1.3

Auditory Nerve: responsible for auditory function and balance

Cochlea: plays a key role in the sense of hearing and participates in the process of auditory transduction

Eustachian Tube: aerates the middle ear system and clears mucus from the middle ear into the nasopharynx.

External Auditory Canal: transmits sound from the pinna to the eardrum 

Incus: transmits vibrations from the malleus to the stapes. 

Malleus: connects to the tympanic membrane transferring auditory oscillations to the incus and then the stapes

Oval Window: transmits the vibrations within the fluid contained in the cochlea.

Pinna: collects sound waves and channels them into the ear canal (external auditory meatus), where the sound is amplified

Round Window: allowing communication between the mesotympanum of the middle ear and the inner ear.

Semicircular Canals: three tiny, fluid-filled tubes in your inner ear that help you keep your balance

Stapes: convey sound vibrations to the bone's flat base

Tympanic Cavity: small cavity surrounding the bones of the middle ear. Within it sit the ossicles, three small bones that transmit vibrations used in the detection of sound.

Tympanic Membrane: separates the outer ear from the middle ear