What are the three small bones in the middle ear collectively called?

The three small bones in the middle ear are known collectively as the auditory ossicles. These ossicles play a crucial role in the process of hearing by transmitting sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. They consist of the malleus, incus, and stapes, which work in sequence to amplify the sound waves that enter the ear.

The malleus, often referred to as the hammer, is attached to the eardrum and receives vibrations from it. The incus, or anvil, connects the malleus to the stapes, which is shaped like a stirrup and connects to the oval window of the cochlea. This arrangement allows the ossicles to effectively transfer and amplify sound energy, crucial for our ability to hear.

In contrast, the semicircular canals are part of the vestibular system and are involved in balance, while cochlear tubes do not refer to any specific anatomical structure related to hearing. Eustachian tubes are responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ear and do not serve the role of sound conduction. Thus, the term "auditory ossicles" is specifically used to refer to these important bones that facilitate sound transmission in the auditory pathway.