Q.Which part of the inner ear is responsible for maintaining balance (equilibrium)? Name its components and state the function of the Eustachian tube.

[!TLDR] The vestibular apparatus (utricle, saccule, and three semicircular canals) maintains balance; the Eustachian tube equalises air pressure between the middle ear and the outside atmosphere. [!ANSWER] Balance organ: vestibular apparatus (utricl …

The vestibular apparatus of the inner ear is responsible for maintaining balance (equilibrium). It is made up of the utricle and saccule, which contain small crystals (otoliths) resting on hair cells and detect linear acceleration and the static position of the head, and the three semicircular canals, arranged roughly at right angles to one another, each detecting rotational (angular) head movement in a different plane through fluid movement acting on a gelatinous cupula. Signals from the vestibular apparatus travel along the vestibular nerve to the brain, especially the cerebellum, which uses this information to help maintain posture and balance. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear cavity to the back of the throat (pharynx), and its function is to equalise air pressure between the …

Separate the two sub-questions clearly: name the balance organ and its components first, then explain the Eust …

Do not confuse the vestibular apparatus (balance) with the cochlea (hearing) — both lie in the inn …