Britannica AI Icon

cochlear duct

anatomy
Also known as: scala media

Quick Summary

The cochlear duct, also known as the scala media, is a crucial component of the inner ear and plays a vital role in hearing. It is part of the membranous labyrinth, which is housed within the bony labyrinth of the cochlea. This spiral-shaped structure is filled with a fluid called endolymph.

Within the cochlear duct lies the organ of Corti, which contains sensory hair cells. These hair cells are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses. When sound waves cause vibrations in the fluid, these vibrations stimulate the hair cells. The hair cells then transmit these signals via the cochlear nerve to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.