Inner ear

Definition

The inner ear is a complex structure in the human body responsible for processing sound and maintaining balance. It consists of the cochlea, which translates sound vibrations into nerve impulses for the brain, and the vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation.

Related terms

Cochlea: A spiral-shaped cavity in the inner ear that converts sound vibrations into nerve impulses.

Vestibular System: A set of structures in the inner ear that provides the leading contribution to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for coordinating movement.

Nerve Impulses: Electrical signals transmitted along neurons that allow different parts of the body to communicate with each other