Which structures are located on the medial wall of the middle ear?

The medial wall of the middle ear features the oval window and round window, which are integral components of the auditory system. The oval window serves as the interface between the middle ear and the cochlea, allowing mechanical vibrations from the stapes (one of the ossicles) to be transmitted into the fluid of the cochlea for sound processing. The round window, located beneath the oval window, acts as a release valve for the fluid waves created in the cochlea, preventing pressure buildup that could otherwise impede hearing.

In this context, other structures such as the cochlea and vestibular system, which are found in the inner ear, are not located on the medial wall of the middle ear. Similarly, the auditory canal and ossicles do not form part of the medial wall but are instead associated with the outer ear and the same wall of the middle ear, respectively. The tympanic membrane, more commonly known as the eardrum, is found at the lateral wall of the middle ear and the eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx, playing a role in equalizing air pressure but is not part of the medial structure. Hence, the correct answer highlights the specific and essential roles of the oval and round windows within