The scala tympani is connected to the scala vestibuli at the helicotrema, a small opening at the apex of the cochlea.

What is the scala tympani?

The scala tympani is one of the three fluid-filled chambers of the cochlea, a spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear. It is located below the basilar membrane and contains perilymph, a fluid that is similar to cerebrospinal fluid.

What is the function of the scala tympani in the ear?

The scala tympani plays an important role in hearing. When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the stapes, a small bone in the middle ear, to vibrate. This vibration is transmitted to the scala vestibuli, which is located above the basilar membrane. The movement of the fluid in the scala vestibuli causes the fluid in the scala tympani to move as well. This movement of fluid bends the basilar membrane, which stimulates the hair cells in the cochlea. The hair cells then send signals to the brain, which interprets them as sound.

Is the scala tympani the cochlea?

No, the scala tympani is not the cochlea. The cochlea is the entire spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear, while the scala tympani is just one of the three fluid-filled chambers within the cochlea.

What do the scala tympani and vestibuli do?

The scala tympani and scala vestibuli work together to transmit sound waves to the hair cells in the cochlea. The scala vestibuli receives sound waves from the stapes, while the scala tympani provides pressure relief for the movement of fluid in the cochlea.