The tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is a thin, cone-shaped membrane located in the middle ear. It plays a crucial role in hearing by vibrating in response to sound waves. These vibrations are then transmitted to the tiny bones in the middle ear, known as the ossicles, which amplify the sound and send it to the inner ear. The tympanic membrane is made up of three layers: an outer layer of skin, a middle layer of fibrous tissue, and an inner layer of mucous membrane. It is sensitive and can be affected by infections, trauma, or pressure changes, leading to conditions such as otitis media or perforation.