Which Structure Delivers Sound Waves to the Tympanic Membrane

Question

Which structure delivers sound waves to the tympanic membrane?
A) auditory tube
B) external auditory meatus
C) pinna
D) none of the above

Accepted Answer

The external auditory meatus (also known as ear canal) is the structure that leads sound waves to the tympanic membrane (also known as eardrum). The auditory tube (also known as Eustachian tube) connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx and helps equalize pressure, but does not deliver sound waves. The pinna (also known as auricle) is the external visible part of the ear and helps collect sound waves, but does not directly deliver them to the tympanic membrane. Therefore, the best choice is B.