What does the term "air conduction" refer to in audiometry?

The term "air conduction" in audiometry specifically refers to the process by which sound travels through the air, entering the ear canal and reaching the cochlea, where it is ultimately perceived by the brain. This method assesses how sound waves travel through the outer and middle ear before being processed by the inner ear structures.

Understanding air conduction is vital in audiometry as it helps determine the functionality of the auditory pathways when sound is transmitted through the air, distinguishing it from bone conduction, which assesses the transmission of sound through the bones of the skull. This distinction facilitates the diagnosis of possible hearing impairments, as professionals can evaluate whether hearing loss occurs due to issues in the outer or middle ear or if it is related to the inner ear's functionality.