CH 14: Key Terms - Ears Flashcards
Cochlea vibrations cause a disturbance of this pale, transparent fluid, which in turn disturb hair cells on the organ of Corti, transmitting impulses to the auditory nerve.
Perilymph
Waxy substance in the external auditory canal that traps tiny foreign particles and prevents them from entering the deeper structures
Cerumen
Vibrations of the tympanic membrane cause these three tiny bones to move, which sends vibrations to the inner ear.
Ossicles
Feeling a sense of balance when at rest or not moving
Static Equilibrium
Slender tube that runs from the external ear to the middle ear
External auditory canal
Translates sound vibrations into nerve impulses; controls both static and dynamic equilibrium
Vestibular System
Connects the middle ear to the throat; allows air movement between the inner ear and outer atmosphere
Eustachian tube
Pale, transparent fluid within the labyrinth that responds to changes in body position based on gravity
Endolymph
Made of cartilage covered with skin; collects sound waves and channels them into the external auditory canal
Pinna
Complex, mazelike anatomy of the inner ear
Labyrinth
Wall between the external and middle ear that is commonly known as the eardrum; vibrates in response to sound waves
Tympanic membrane
Located behind the ossicles, the oval window, and the round window; contains perilymph and endolymph; part of the vestibular system
Semicircular canals
Sends nerve impulses to the brain
Vestibulocochlear (auditory) nerve
Responsible for hearing, balance, and equilibrium
Ear
Sense of balance when we are in motion
Dynamic Equilibrium
