Middle ear

Definition

The middle ear is an air-filled cavity situated between the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the inner ear, containing three tiny bones (ossicles) that transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in amplifying and transferring sound waves for auditory perception.

Related terms

Tympanic membrane: A thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear and vibrates in response to sound waves.

Ossicles: The three small bones in the middle ear known as the malleus, incus, and stapes, which transmit sound vibrations from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear.

Eustachian tube: A tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose; it helps equalize pressure in the middle ear with atmospheric pressure