Summary
Sound vibrations pass through the ossicles to the cochlea, where hair cells produce nerve impulses.
In depth
Sound waves vibrate the eardrum, ossicles (malleus, incus, stapes) amplify, oval window moves cochlear fluid, and hair cells on the basilar membrane convert movement to signals. Different frequencies activate different positions. The vestibular system handles balance.
The Eustachian tube equalises pressure. Cochlear hair cells have stereocilia that open channels when bent. Frequency is mapped along the cochlea (tonotopy).
Remember: balance depends on semicircular canals and otoliths.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ear and Hearing?
Sound vibrations pass through the ossicles to the cochlea, where hair cells produce nerve impulses.
Which area of biology covers Ear and Hearing, and how advanced is it?
Ear and Hearing is one of the 54 topics in Neuroscience. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Neuron, Action Potential, Excitatory and Inhibitory Synapses.
Can you give an example of Ear and Hearing?
Loud noise damages hair cells permanently.
What should I learn before Ear and Hearing?
Ear and Hearing is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Neuroscience that pair well with it include Nervous System, Neuron, Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems.
What topics are related to Ear and Hearing?
The closest topics to Ear and Hearing are Neuron, Action Potential, Excitatory and Inhibitory Synapses, Eye and Vision. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Ear and Hearing?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Ear and Hearing. To practise the whole of Neuroscience, use the Neuroscience quiz.
How is Ear and Hearing different from Neuron?
Ear and Hearing: Sound vibrations pass through the ossicles to the cochlea, where hair cells produce nerve impulses. Neuron: A nerve cell with dendrites, a cell body and an axon that transmits electrical signals. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Ear and Hearing step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Neuron and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Neuroscience quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.