The Ear

Question 1

Pinna

Answer 1

Mostly made of cartilage. It helps collect and channel vibrations into the auditory canal

Question 2

Auditory canal

Answer 2

This tube carries vibrations to the eardrum. Wax is secreted outside the eardrum to trap dust particles and protect the ear

Question 3

Eardrum/Timpanic Membrane

Answer 3

A small, tightly stretched membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It vibrates as a result of the vibrations that reach it

Question 4

Osticles

Answer 4

3 tiny bones in the middle ear (hammer, anvil, stirrup). Stirrup is the smallest bone in the body. These bones transmit vibrations from the outer to the inner ear and amplify (increase) the vibrations

Question 5

Eustachian tube

Answer 5

Equalises the pressure on either side of the eardrum. This prevents damage to the eardrum caused by differences in pressure between the outer and middle ear

Question 6

Outer ear

Answer 6

Gathers sound and directs it to the ear drum (air)

Question 7

Middle ear

Answer 7

Transforms sound energy for inner ear (air)

Question 8

Inner ear

Answer 8

Location of auditory receptors (fluid)

Question 9

Cochlea

Answer 9

Converts pressure waves caused by sound vibrations into electrical impulses that travel to the brain

Question 10

Organ of Corti

Answer 10

Collection of sensory cells

Question 11

The ear and balance

Answer 11

Vestibular apparatus

Question 12

Glue ear (children)

Answer 12

Caused by surplus sticky fluid collecting in the middle ear

Question 13

Correction of glue ear

Answer 13

Mild cases : nose drops
Severe cases : grommets