What is the external part of the ear that funnels sound waves called?

The external part of the ear that funnels sound waves is known as the ear canal. This structure plays a crucial role in the process of hearing by channeling sound waves from the environment through the outer ear towards the eardrum. The ear canal helps to amplify sound waves and protect the inner structures of the ear by preventing foreign objects and debris from reaching deeper areas.

The ear drum, located further in the ear, vibrates in response to sound waves but does not funnel them. The inner ear is responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses but does not directly interact with sound waves entering the ear. The middle ear contains structures that transmit sound but is situated behind the ear drum and is not involved in the initial reception of sound waves. Each part of the ear has a specific role in the hearing process, but the ear canal is particularly important for capturing and directing sound waves toward the eardrum.