The ossicular system of the ear
A) serves to keep the pressure on the two sides of the tympanic membrane equal
B) increases the pressure of vibration as it transfers the sound wave from air in the outer ear to fluid in the inner ear
C) assists in determining whether a sound comes from the front or rear
D) is part of the vestibular apparatus
E) is in direct contact with the tympanic membrane and the round window

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ossicular system, consisting of the malleus, incus, and stapes, serves to increase the pressure of vibration as it transfers the sound wave from air in the outer ear to fluid in the inner ear, specifically the cochlea. This is necessary because sound waves in air have much lower pressure than sound waves in fluid, so this system is crucial in allowing us to hear sounds in our environment.

The Ossicular System of the Ear