Middle Ear
Middle Ear
The Middle Ear (pronunciation: /ˈmɪdəl ɪər/) is a key component of the auditory system, located between the outer ear and the inner ear.
Etymology
The term "Middle Ear" originates from the Latin words 'medius' meaning middle, and 'auris' meaning ear.
Definition
The Middle Ear is an air-filled cavity that contains the three smallest bones in the human body, collectively known as the ossicles. These bones, named the malleus, incus, and stapes, transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea in the inner ear.
Function
The primary function of the Middle Ear is to amplify sound waves and transmit them to the inner ear. It does this by leveraging the mechanical advantage provided by the ossicles and the difference in size between the eardrum and the oval window of the cochlea.
Related Terms
- Eustachian tube: A tube that links the middle ear to the back of the nose, helping to equalize pressure on either side of the eardrum.
- Otitis media: An infection or inflammation of the middle ear.
- Tympanic membrane: Also known as the eardrum, it separates the outer ear from the middle ear.
- Mastoid process: A part of the temporal bone of the skull, located behind the ear. It contains air spaces that communicate with the middle ear.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Middle Ear
- Wikipedia's article - Middle Ear
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