Ectotympanic

Ectotympanic is a part of the mammalian middle ear that is involved in the transmission of sound vibrations. It is a bone that forms the lower and anterior wall of the tympanic cavity and supports the tympanic membrane. The term "ectotympanic" is derived from the Greek words "ektos" (outside) and "tympanon" (drum).

Etymology

The term "ectotympanic" comes from the Greek words "ektos", meaning "outside", and "tympanon", meaning "drum". This is in reference to its position and function in the middle ear.

Structure

The ectotympanic bone is a part of the middle ear, which is located between the outer ear and the inner ear. It forms the lower and anterior wall of the tympanic cavity, and supports the tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum. The ectotympanic bone is involved in the transmission of sound vibrations from the outer ear to the inner ear.

Function

The primary function of the ectotympanic is to support the tympanic membrane and transmit sound vibrations. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate. These vibrations are then transferred to the ectotympanic, which in turn transmits them to the other bones of the middle ear. From there, the vibrations are sent to the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals and sent to the brain to be interpreted as sound.

Related Terms

• Middle ear: The part of the ear that contains the ectotympanic. It is located between the outer ear and the inner ear.
• Tympanic membrane: Also known as the eardrum, it is supported by the ectotympanic and vibrates in response to sound waves.
• Outer ear: The part of the ear that collects sound waves and directs them to the tympanic membrane.
• Inner ear: The part of the ear that converts vibrations into electrical signals to be sent to the brain.

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