What structure in the inner ear helps with balance?

The semicircular canals are the structures in the inner ear that play a crucial role in maintaining balance. These canals are three fluid-filled tubes positioned at right angles to each other, allowing them to detect rotational movements of the head. When the head moves, the movement of the fluid inside these canals stimulates hair cells located in the ampullae, which send signals to the brain regarding the body's position and motion. This information is essential for maintaining balance and coordination during activities.

In contrast, the cochlea is primarily responsible for hearing, converting sound vibrations into nerve signals that the brain interprets as sound. The auditory canal is part of the outer ear and serves as a passage for sound waves to reach the eardrum. The tympanic membrane, or eardrum, is also involved in hearing as it vibrates in response to sound waves. While these structures are vital for auditory functions, they do not contribute to balance like the semicircular canals do.