ear (structure + function)

Question 1

what is the function of the pinna?

Answer 1

collects sound and channels it down the ear canal

Question 1

what is the function of the auditory canal?

Answer 1

channels sound waves to the eardrum, produces a waxy substance for protection

Question 2

what is the function of the eardrum?

Answer 2

a thin, sensitive membrane which vibrates with the same frequency as the sound wave that hits it.

provides protection between external + middle ear

Question 3

what is the function of ear ossicles?

Answer 3

consists of 3 small bones:
transfers vibrations from ear drum to oval window

reduces amplitude of vibrations on eardrum

Question 4

what is the function of the oval window?

Answer 4

receives vibrations from eardrums via ossicles

Question 5

what is the function of the round window?

Answer 5

transfers vibration from oval window to fluid in inner ear

Question 6

what is the function of the cochlea?

Answer 6

long tube wound around itself filled with liquid, similar to a snail shell

fluid transfers vibrations to hairs in the Organ of Corti

Question 7

what is the function of the Organ of Corti?

Answer 7

contains hair cells attached to nerves responsible for sound detection, when stimulated by pressure wave, each hair sets off a nerve impulse

Question 8

what is the function of the auditory nerve?

Answer 8

bundle of nerve fibres bound together that carry nerve signals from sensory hair to the brain, where it’s interpreted as sound