The ear is a pair of sensory organs located on either side of the head, providing the sense of hearing and maintaining the balance function. 

This complex anatomical structure is also referred to as the vestibulocochlear apparatus. Most of the structures of the vestibulocochlear apparatus are located inside the temporal bone of the skull.

The ear consists of three anatomical parts: 

• External ear

• Middle ear

• Internal ear

The first two parts conduct the sound vibrations to the internal ear, which contains hearing and balance receptors. 

All parts provide the hearing sensation, but the internal part also provides a balance function and maintains it.