Cochlea

The cochlea is an essential part of the ear. It is a spiral-shaped structure that helps convert sound waves into electrical signals the brain can interpret. The outer wall of the cochlea is filled with fluid, while the middle of it houses a chain of tiny sensory organs called hair cells. Those hair cells have tiny hair-like extensions which vibrate in reaction to sound waves. That vibration triggers an electrical signal which passes to the brain, allowing us to recognize and interpret sound. The cochlea is critical for hearing, and damage to it can result in hearing loss. It can also be surgically manipulated to restore hearing in some cases.