The Ear & Hearing

Front

What is the main function of the ear?

Back

The main function of the ear is to collect sound waves and convert them into signals that the brain can interpret as sound.

Front

What part of the ear is responsible for balance?

Back

The inner ear contains structures called the vestibular system that help maintain balance.

Front

What is sound?

Back

Sound is a type of energy made by vibrations that travels through air, water, or solids.

Front

What is the speed of sound in air?

Back

The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 343 meters per second.

Front

What is a decibel?

Back

A decibel (dB) is a unit used to measure the intensity of sound.

Front

What is the outer ear made up of?

Back

The outer ear consists of the pinna (the visible part) and the ear canal.

Front

How do sound waves travel?

Back

Sound waves travel by causing particles in a medium (like air) to vibrate and pass the energy along.

Front

What is the role of the eardrum?

Back

The eardrum vibrates when sound waves hit it, converting sound energy into mechanical energy.

Front

What is the cochlea?

Back

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear that converts sound vibrations into electrical signals for the brain.

Front

What is the difference between sound and light waves?

Back

Sound waves require a medium (like air or water) to travel, while light waves can travel through a vacuum.