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Multiple Choice
The vibration of the ________ causes the ossicles to move.
A
cochlea
B
tympanic membrane
C
semicircular canals
D
auditory nerve
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomy of the ear. The ear is divided into three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Each part plays a role in the process of hearing.
Step 2: Focus on the outer ear and middle ear. Sound waves enter the ear canal and strike the tympanic membrane (eardrum), causing it to vibrate. This vibration is the first step in transmitting sound to the inner ear.
Step 3: Learn the role of the ossicles. The ossicles are three tiny bones in the middle ear: the malleus, incus, and stapes. These bones amplify the vibrations from the tympanic membrane and transmit them to the inner ear.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. The cochlea is part of the inner ear and processes sound signals, but it does not cause the ossicles to move. The semicircular canals are involved in balance, not hearing. The auditory nerve transmits signals to the brain but does not cause movement of the ossicles.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the tympanic membrane, as its vibrations directly cause the ossicles to move, initiating the process of sound transmission.