The ear drum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is located at the end of the ear canal, which is approximately one inch in length.
Understanding the Ear Canal
The ear canal plays a crucial role in hearing by channeling sound waves towards the eardrum. Here's a breakdown of its structure:
- Length: The ear canal is about an inch long.
- Sensitivity: The skin lining the ear canal is extremely sensitive to pain and pressure.
- Structure:
- The outer one-third of the canal is made of cartilage.
- The inner two-thirds are made of bone.
The Ear Drum
The ear drum is a thin, oval-shaped membrane that vibrates when sound waves hit it, initiating the process of hearing.
Key Facts about the Ear Drum
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | About the size of a dime |
| Location | At the end of the ear canal |
| Development | The ear drum is the same size in newborns as in adults. |
Note: The ear drum's depth is determined by the length of the ear canal which is approximately an inch.
