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Multiple Choice
The vibration of the tympanic membrane causes which of the following?
A
Contraction of the ciliary muscles
B
Production of sound waves in the cochlea
C
Movement of the auditory ossicles
D
Stimulation of olfactory receptors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy and function of the tympanic membrane (eardrum). The tympanic membrane is a thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear. Its primary role is to vibrate in response to sound waves entering the ear canal.
Learn about the auditory ossicles. These are three small bones in the middle ear: the malleus, incus, and stapes. They are connected to the tympanic membrane and transmit vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.
Recognize the sequence of events. When sound waves hit the tympanic membrane, it vibrates. These vibrations are transferred to the auditory ossicles, which amplify and pass the sound energy to the cochlea in the inner ear.
Clarify why the other options are incorrect. For example, contraction of ciliary muscles is related to the eye and not the ear. Production of sound waves in the cochlea is not caused directly by the tympanic membrane but rather by the movement of the stapes at the oval window. Stimulation of olfactory receptors is related to the sense of smell, not hearing.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'Movement of the auditory ossicles,' as this is the direct result of the tympanic membrane's vibration in response to sound waves.