What is the function of the Eustachian tube?

What is the function of the Eustachian tube?

• A. Regulates blood flow in the cochlea.
• B. Equalizes air pressure between middle ear and nasopharynx.
• C. Produces endolymph.
• D. Transmits sound to the inner ear.

Answer: (B)

The Eustachian tube mainly equalizes air pressure between the middle ear and the nasopharynx. It connects the middle ear to the upper throat and stays closed most of the time, opening briefly when you swallow, chew, or yawn. That opening lets air flow in or out so the pressure on both sides of the eardrum stays balanced, which keeps the eardrum at the right tension for effective hearing and prevents discomfort or injury during altitude or depth changes. The other statements refer to functions of different parts of the ear: regulating cochlear blood flow, producing endolymph, and transmitting sound to the inner ear are not roles of the Eustachian tube.

The Eustachian tube mainly equalizes air pressure between the middle ear and the nasopharynx. It connects the middle ear to the upper throat and stays closed most of the time, opening briefly when you swallow, chew, or yawn. That opening lets air flow in or out so the pressure on both sides of the eardrum stays balanced, which keeps the eardrum at the right tension for effective hearing and prevents discomfort or injury during altitude or depth changes. The other statements refer to functions of different parts of the ear: regulating cochlear blood flow, producing endolymph, and transmitting sound to the inner ear are not roles of the Eustachian tube.