The malleus, incus, and stapes are the tiny bones located in the
(a) External ear
(b) Middle ear
(c) Internal ear
(d) Membranous labyrinth

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomy of the ear, which is divided into three main parts: the external ear, middle ear, and internal ear.
2. Step 2: Recall that the malleus, incus, and stapes are known as the auditory ossicles, which are small bones involved in transmitting sound vibrations.
3. Step 3: Identify the location of these auditory ossicles; they are situated in the middle ear, where they connect the eardrum to the inner ear.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the external ear includes structures like the pinna and ear canal, while the internal ear contains the cochlea and vestibular apparatus.
5. Step 5: Conclude that since the malleus, incus, and stapes are the tiny bones transmitting sound in the middle ear, the correct answer is the middle ear.

Key Concepts

Anatomy of the Ear

The ear is divided into three main parts: the external ear, middle ear, and internal ear. Each part has distinct structures and functions related to hearing and balance.

Ossicles of the Middle Ear

The malleus, incus, and stapes are the three small bones, called ossicles, located in the middle ear. They transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.

Function of the Middle Ear

The middle ear amplifies and conveys sound waves from the external ear to the internal ear. The ossicles play a crucial role in this process by mechanically transmitting vibrations.