What structures are included in the inner ear?

The inner ear comprises both the cochlea and the semi-circular canals, which are essential components of our auditory and balance systems. The cochlea is responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses that the brain interprets as sound. It achieves this through its fluid-filled structure, where tiny hair cells detect vibrations and send signals via the auditory nerve.

The semi-circular canals play a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. They respond to changes in head position and motion by detecting the movement of fluid within them, aiding in our sense of balance.

In contrast, the middle ear contains the ossicles and the eardrum, while the outer ear consists of structures like the pinna and the ear canal. The auditory nerve, although critical for hearing, is a pathway that transmits signals from the inner ear to the brain rather than being a structure of the inner ear itself. Therefore, the most accurate representation of the inner ear's components includes the cochlea and the semi-circular canals.