Vestibulocochlear nerve

Definition

The vestibulocochlear nerve is a cranial nerve that transmits sound and equilibrium (balance) information from the inner ear to the brain. It is essential for hearing and maintaining balance while moving or in stationary positions.

Related terms

Cochlea: A spiral-shaped cavity in the inner ear that plays a key role in converting vibrations into neural messages for hearing.

Semicircular canals: Three looped tubes in the inner ear filled with fluid that help maintain balance by detecting head rotation.

Cranial nerves: Twelve pairs of nerves that emerge directly from the brain (not through the spinal cord) and reach various parts of the head and neck to control motor and sensory functions