Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane)
Thin, cone-shaped and flexible structure that separates the external ear from the middle ear and transmits sound from outside the body to inside the ear.
See also: How the Ear Works
About the Eardrum
Sound waves reaching the outer ear cause the eardrum to vibrate. The vibrations are passed on from the middle ear to the inner ear. This is where the actual organ of hearing, the cochlea, is found. Fine hair cells in the cochlea play an important role in converting the sound waves into electrical signals. IQWiG – Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care