Ear
Ear
Ear (/ɪər/; from Old English ēare, "ear") is a part of the human body that is responsible for hearing and balance. The ear is divided into three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Each part has a specific function in the process of hearing and balance.
Etymology
The word "ear" comes from the Old English word "ēare," which means "ear." The word has been used in the English language since the 8th century.
Anatomy
The outer ear consists of the pinna (the visible part of the ear) and the ear canal. The pinna collects sound waves and directs them into the ear canal, which leads to the eardrum.
The middle ear contains three small bones known as the ossicles: the malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup). These bones amplify the sound waves and send them to the inner ear.
The inner ear is composed of the cochlea and the vestibular system. The cochlea is responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. The vestibular system helps maintain balance.
Related Terms
- Audiology - the study of hearing disorders and their treatment.
- Otitis - inflammation of the ear, which can affect one or all parts of the ear.
- Tinnitus - a condition characterized by a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears.
- Vertigo - a sensation of feeling off balance, often caused by problems in the inner ear.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ear
- Wikipedia's article - Ear
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