Which part of the ear is involved in hearing balance as well as sound?

The semicircular canals play a crucial role in maintaining balance as well as contributing to the overall function of hearing through their connection to the inner ear structure. The semicircular canals are part of the vestibular system, which is responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head and providing the brain with information about balance and spatial orientation.

While other structures in the ear, such as the cochlea, are primarily involved in hearing by converting sound waves into neural signals, the semicircular canals specifically focus on balance. They contain fluid and sensory hair cells that help detect changes in position and movement. This important function allows the body to coordinate movements and maintain equilibrium, which is especially critical during activities that involve motion, such as walking or running.

The middle ear and Eustachian tube serve different purposes, primarily related to sound transmission and pressure equalization, and do not have a direct role in balance. Thus, the semicircular canals are the correct choice for their involvement in both hearing balance and sound perception.