The Outer Ear

• Pinna (auricle): collects and funnels sound into the ear canal
• Ear canal (external auditory meatus): directs sound into the ear

The Middle Ear

• Eardrum (tympanic membrane): changes sound into vibrations
• Ossicles: hammer, anvil and stirrup (malleus, incus and stapes). This chain of three small bones transfers vibrations to the inner ear

The Inner Ear

• Cochlea: contains fluid and highly sensitive hair cells that move with sound vibrations
• Vestibular system: contains cells that control balance
• Auditory nerve: leads from the cochlea to the brain