Question

Which of the following parts of the human ear contribute to hearing?

• A. Cochlea, ear ossicles and tympanum
• B. Semicircular canals, utriculus and sacculus
• C. Eustachian tube, tympanum and utriculus
• D. Perilymph, ear ossicles and semicircular canals

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Cochlea, ear ossicles and tympanum

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option :

1. The external ear pinna receives the sound waves.
2. The tympanic membrane is vibrated by these sound waves as they travel through the ear (also called eardrums).
3. The tympanic membrane is tied to the malleus bone, which is connected to the incus bone, which is connected to the stapes bone.
4. When the tympanic membrane vibrates, it causes the chain of bones to vibrate as well, and the fluid within the inner ear cochlea is moved by the vibration of the last bone, the stapes.
5. As a result, the cells in the inner ear system generate an impulse (contained in the bony snail-shaped portion of the ear called cochlea).
6. The nerve impulses from the cochlea are subsequently transmitted to the brain, where the sound's details are analyzed. Sound is separated and speech is interpreted in minute detail at the level of the brain.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option B:

1. The semicircular canals in the inner ear are three tiny, fluid-filled tubes that aid with balance.
2. The otolith organs in the vertebrate inner ear are the utriculus and sacculus. They are also an important component of the balancing system.

Option C:

1. The eustachian tube is a narrow tube that connects the middle ear with the upper pharynx, balancing air pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

Option D:

1. The fluid that flows between the ear's membrane and bony labyrinths is known as perilymph.

Final answer: Cochlea, ear ossicles, and tympanum are parts of the human ear that contribute to hearing.