Parts of the ear

Question 1

auditory canal

Answer 1

Air-filled tube which directs sound waves on to eardrum

Question 2

eardrum

Answer 2

Thin membrane stretched completely across auditory canal. Set vibrating by sound waves which it passes on to middle ear bones

Question 3

middle ear bones

Answer 3

Amplify and transmit sound vibrations from eardrum to oval window

Question 4

Oval window

Answer 4

Thin membrane which transmits sound vibrations into liquid-filled inner ear.

Question 5

Cochlea

Answer 5

Coiled liquid-filled tube lined with sound receptor cells possessing hair-like endings. Stimulated ‘hairs’ convert sound vibrations in the liquid to nerve impulses

Question 6

auditory nerve

Answer 6

Carries nerve impulses from cochlea to brain

Question 7

semi-circular canals

Answer 7

Three tubes containing liquid which moves in response to movements of head. Messages sent to part of brain which controls muscular activity essential for balance