Hearing occurs, in part, when sound waves reach the 'eardrum' or ________.

• A. auditory tube
• B. tympanic membrane
• C. ossicles
• D. cochlea

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomy of the ear and the process of hearing. Sound waves travel through the external ear and reach the eardrum, which is a critical structure in the auditory system.
2. Step 2: Recall the function of the eardrum. It is a thin membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves, transmitting these vibrations to the ossicles in the middle ear.
3. Step 3: Review the terminology associated with the ear. The eardrum is scientifically referred to as the 'tympanic membrane.' This term is commonly used in anatomy and physiology to describe the structure.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. The auditory tube (Eustachian tube) is responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ear, not directly involved in sound wave reception. The ossicles are small bones that transmit vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea. The cochlea is involved in converting vibrations into neural signals but does not directly receive sound waves.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'tympanic membrane,' as it is the anatomical term for the eardrum, which plays a key role in the initial reception of sound waves.