Definition & Meaning of "tympanic duct"

What is "tympanic duct"?

The tympanic duct, also known as the scala tympani, is a fluid-filled chamber located in the cochlea of the inner ear. It is one of the three chambers of the cochlea, alongside the vestibular duct and the cochlear duct. The tympanic duct extends from the apex of the cochlea to the round window, which is covered by a membrane. The primary function of the tympanic duct is to transmit sound vibrations that have traveled through the cochlear duct. These vibrations are transmitted to the round window, causing it to move and allowing for the dissipation of the fluid's pressure. The tympanic duct plays a vital role in the process of hearing by helping to amplify and transmit sound signals for further processing by the auditory system.