The inner ear is a vital part of the auditory system, located deep within the skull. It consists of the cochlea, which is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. Additionally, the inner ear contains the vestibular system, which helps maintain balance and spatial orientation by detecting head movements.
The inner ear is protected by the temporal bone of the skull and is filled with fluid. This fluid movement stimulates tiny hair cells in the cochlea, allowing us to perceive different sounds. Proper functioning of the inner ear is essential for hearing and balance.