The middle ear comprises the tympanic cavity in the temporal bone of the skull behind the eardrum, and is separated from the outer ear by the ear drum. The tympanic cavity contains the auditory ossicles (malleus, incus, stapes) that vibrate when exposed to sound, forming a chain that extends to the oval window of the inner ear and whose main function is to amplify sound. Additionally, the middle ear connects to the back of the throat and nose through the Eustachian tube.