Auditory ossicle
Auditory Ossicle
The Auditory Ossicle (pronounced: /ɔːˈdɪtəri ˈɒsɪkəl/) is a group of three small bones found in the middle ear that function in the transmission of sound from the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the inner ear. The three bones are known as the malleus (hammer), the incus (anvil), and the stapes (stirrup).
Etymology
The term "ossicle" derives from the Latin "ossiculum", a diminutive of "os", meaning bone. The names of the three bones, malleus, incus, and stapes, are Latin for hammer, anvil, and stirrup respectively. These names reflect the shapes of the bones.
Function
The primary function of the auditory ossicles is to transmit vibrations from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear. This is achieved through the mechanical linkage provided by the ossicles, which amplifies the vibrations and allows for the efficient transfer of sound energy.
Related Terms
- Tympanic membrane: Also known as the eardrum, it is a thin membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear. It vibrates in response to sound waves and transmits these vibrations to the auditory ossicles.
- Malleus: The first of the three auditory ossicles. It is attached to the tympanic membrane and articulates with the incus.
- Incus: The second of the three auditory ossicles. It articulates with both the malleus and the stapes.
- Stapes: The third and smallest of the auditory ossicles. It is the final link in the chain of ossicles and transmits vibrations from the incus to the inner ear.
- Inner ear: The innermost part of the ear, containing the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. It is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Auditory ossicle
- Wikipedia's article - Auditory ossicle
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