How the Ear Works
The ear is made up of three parts:
- External Ear
- Middle Ear
- Inner Ear
Outer (External) Ear
Sounds travel through the external ear or ear canal and cause vibration of the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
Middle Ear
Eardrum movement causes the three middle ear bones (ossicles) to vibrate.
This vibration creates movement of fluid in the inner ear (cochlea).
Inner Ear
The inner ear, or cochlea, sends nerve impulses to the brain. Once the brain receives the message, we have a sensation of hearing.
Center on Human Development and Disability,
Clinical Training Unit, University of Washington,
Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195-7920 lend@uw.edu
