What is macula of the ear?

There is no part of the ear called the "macula of the ear". The term "macula" is most commonly associated with the inner ear, specifically the macula of the utricle and saccule.

Here's what you need to know:

* Utricle and Saccule: These are two chambers within the inner ear that form part of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

* Macula: Inside the utricle and saccule, there are specialized sensory patches called maculae. These are made up of hair cells and a gelatinous layer called the otolithic membrane.

* Otoliths: Small, calcium carbonate crystals called otoliths are embedded in the otolithic membrane.

* How they work: When your head moves, the otoliths shift within the otolithic membrane, bending the hair cells. This sends signals to the brain about your head's position and movement, helping you maintain your balance.

Therefore, the maculae are vital for balance and spatial orientation, but they are not a separate structure within the ear called the "macula of the ear".