Väliskõrv

Väliskõrv, also known as the outer ear, is the external part of the auditory system. It comprises two main structures: the auricle (pinna) and the external auditory canal (ear canal). The auricle is the visible, cartilaginous flap on the side of the head, which plays a role in collecting and directing sound waves into the ear canal. Its distinctive shape helps in the localization of sound sources. The external auditory canal is a tube that extends from the auricle to the eardrum. It is lined with skin that contains glands producing cerumen, commonly known as earwax, which helps to protect the ear canal by trapping dirt and foreign particles and has antibacterial properties. The ear canal also amplifies certain frequencies of sound. The outer ear's primary function is to capture sound waves and channel them towards the middle ear. It serves as the initial stage in the process of hearing.