Structure and Function of the Ear

Front

What are the three main parts of the human ear?

Back

Outer ear, middle ear, inner ear.

Front

What is the function of the outer ear?

Back

The outer ear collects sound waves and channels them into the auditory canal toward the eardrum.

Front

What is the role of the eardrum?

Back

The eardrum vibrates in response to sound waves, separating the outer ear from the middle ear.

Front

What are the three tiny bones in the middle ear called?

Back

Malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup).

Front

What is the function of the ossicles in the middle ear?

Back

They amplify sound vibrations from the eardrum and transfer them to the inner ear.

Front

How much does the middle ear increase sound pressure?

Back

Approximately 20 times.

Front

What is the role of the stapes in sound transmission?

Back

The stapes concentrates force onto a small area, enhancing pressure for effective sound transmission into the cochlea.

Front

What is the cochlea?

Back

A snail-shaped structure in the inner ear filled with liquid, where sound vibrations are converted into electrical signals.

Front

How do specialized cells in the cochlea respond to sound?

Back

They respond to liquid vibrations and generate electrical impulses that travel through the auditory nerve to the brain.

Front

What does the cochlea enable the brain to do?

Back

Detect various sound frequencies and intensities, allowing differentiation of sounds, words, and music notes.