A TM ear refers to the ear featuring the tympanic membrane (TM), which is also known as the eardrum.
Understanding the Tympanic Membrane (Eardrum)
The tympanic membrane plays a crucial role in hearing. Here's a breakdown:
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Location: The tympanic membrane separates the outer ear from the middle ear.
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Function:
- When sound waves enter the ear canal, they reach the tympanic membrane.
- These sound waves cause the eardrum to vibrate.
- The vibrations are then transferred to the tiny bones (ossicles) in the middle ear.
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Significance: Without a properly functioning tympanic membrane, sound cannot be efficiently transmitted to the middle ear, leading to hearing impairment.