Which term refers to the tiny bones in the middle ear?

The term that refers to the tiny bones in the middle ear is "auditory ossicles." These three small bones—known as the malleus, incus, and stapes—are essential for the process of hearing. They transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, amplifying the sound along the way. The auditory ossicles play a crucial role in the function of the auditory system, allowing us to perceive sound effectively.

The semicircular canals are structures in the inner ear involved in maintaining balance, not in hearing. The ossicular chain refers to the same structure as the auditory ossicles but is less commonly used. The tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is a separate structure that also plays a vital role in hearing by capturing sound waves and transmitting them to the auditory ossicles. Thus, "auditory ossicles" is the most precise term for the tiny bones located in the middle ear.