Which feature of the ear is most medial?
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A
Pinna
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B
Tympanic membrane
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C
Cochlea
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D
Outer canal
The cochlea is the most medial feature of the ear.
The cochlea is located deep within the ear, inside the bony labyrinth of the inner ear, making it the most medial (or inward) structure compared to the outer and middle ear components.
A. Pinna
The pinna (also known as the auricle) is the outermost part of the ear, responsible for capturing sound waves. It is the most lateral structure of the ear, meaning it is the farthest from the center of the body.
B. Tympanic membrane
The tympanic membrane, or eardrum, is located between the outer ear and the middle ear. While it is deeper than the pinna, it is not as medial as the cochlea, which is located further inside the ear.
C. Cochlea
This is the correct answer. The cochlea is located in the inner ear and is situated deep within the temporal bone of the skull, making it the most medial structure of the ear. It plays a key role in hearing by converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses.
D. Outer canal
The outer canal, also known as the external auditory canal, leads to the tympanic membrane. It is part of the outer ear and is not medial, as it is closer to the exterior of the body compared to the cochlea.
Conclusion:
The cochlea is the most medial feature of the ear, located deep inside the ear's inner structures. The other options are located more externally, with the pinna being the most lateral.

Topic Flashcards
Click to FlipWhat is the primary function of the cochlea in the inner ear?
To convert sound vibrations into electrical nerve impulses for hearing.
Which structure of the ear is the most lateral (farthest from the center)?
The pinna (auricle).
What separates the outer ear from the middle ear?
The tympanic membrane (eardrum).
What is the name of the tube that carries sound from the pinna to the tympanic membrane?
The external auditory canal (outer ear canal).
The cochlea is part of which broader anatomical division of the ear?
The inner ear (bony labyrinth).