What structure in the outer ear funnels sound waves into the ear?

The pinna, which is the external part of the ear, plays a crucial role in hearing by funneling sound waves into the ear. Its unique shape and orientation help capture sound from various directions, effectively directing these sound waves towards the auditory canal. This structure not only aids in sound localization but also enhances the ability to perceive sounds at different frequencies.

While the cochlea, auditory nerve, and auditory canal are vital components of the auditory system, their functions differ significantly from the role of the pinna. The cochlea is involved in the process of converting sound waves into neural signals, the auditory nerve transmits these signals to the brain, and the auditory canal serves as the pathway that sound waves travel through to reach the eardrum. Each of these structures contributes to hearing but does not function to collect and funnel sound waves in the way the pinna does.