Structure and Function of the Ear

Front

What is the main function of the semi-circular canals in the ear?

Back

The semi-circular canals are responsible for maintaining balance and detecting rotary (turning) sensations.

Front

What is sensorineural deafness?

Back

Sensorineural deafness is a type of hearing loss caused by damage to the hair cells in the cochlea or the auditory nerve.

Front

What is contained within the cochlea?

Back

The cochlea contains liquid and tiny hair cells that are essential for hearing.

Front

What structure vibrates first in response to sound waves?

Back

The tympanic membrane (eardrum) is the first structure to vibrate when sound waves hit it.

Front

What are the ossicles?

Back

The ossicles are three tiny bones in the middle ear (malleus, incus, and stapes) that transmit vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea.

Front

What role does the tympanic membrane play in hearing?

Back

The tympanic membrane vibrates in response to sound waves, initiating the process of hearing.

Front

How does sound travel from the outer ear to the inner ear?

Back

Sound travels through the auditory canal, causing the tympanic membrane to vibrate, which then moves the ossicles, leading to the cochlea.

Front

What is the function of the cochlea?

Back

The cochlea converts sound vibrations into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the auditory nerve.

Front

What is the role of hair cells in the cochlea?

Back

Hair cells in the cochlea detect sound vibrations and convert them into electrical impulses for the brain.

Front

What is the vestibule's function in the ear?

Back

The vestibule helps with balance and spatial orientation by detecting linear movements.