Eardrum
The eardrum, or tympanic membrane, is an essential part of the human auditory system. Located in the middle ear, it serves as a barrier between the outer ear and the middle ear. When sound waves travel through the ear canal, they strike the eardrum, causing it to vibrate. These vibrations then pass to the three tiny bones in the middle ear known as the ossicles (the malleus, incus, and stapes), which amplify the sound before it advances to the inner ear.
The ability of the eardrum to vibrate with sound is crucial for the conversion of sound waves into electrical signals processed by the brain, thus enabling human hearing. Understanding the eardrum's role assists in comprehending how sound is perceived and processed, highlighting its significance within the broader context of sound.