What is the primary function of the tympanic membrane?

The primary function of the tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is to convert acoustical energy into mechanical energy. When sound waves reach the tympanic membrane, they cause it to vibrate. These vibrations then transmit mechanical energy to the ossicles, a series of small bones in the middle ear. This process is crucial in hearing because it allows the energy from sound waves to be effectively transmitted from the outer ear to the inner ear, where further processing of sound occurs.

Understanding this function is essential in the context of auditory physiology and the overall process of hearing, highlighting the importance of the tympanic membrane in the conversion of sound. The other options refer to different aspects of the auditory system but do not accurately describe the primary function of the tympanic membrane itself.