The ossicles are three tiny bones located in the middle ear, known as the malleus, incus, and stapes. These bones play a crucial role in hearing by transmitting sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. The malleus is attached to the eardrum, while the stapes connects to the oval window, leading to the inner ear. Together, the ossicles amplify sound waves, making them strong enough to be converted into nerve signals by the cochlea. This process is essential for our ability to hear and understand sounds in our environment.