<P> The labyrinth can be divided by layer or by region . </P> <P> The bony labyrinth, or osseous labyrinth, is the network of passages with bony walls lined with periosteum . The membranous labyrinth runs inside of the bony labyrinth . There is a layer of perilymph fluid between them . The three parts of the bony labyrinth are the vestibule of the ear, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea . </P> <P> In the middle ear, the energy of pressure waves is translated into mechanical vibrations by the three auditory ossicles . Pressure waves move the tympanic membrane which in turns moves the malleus, the first bone of the middle ear . The malleus articulates to incus which connects to the stapes . The footplate of the stapes connects to the oval window, the beginning of the inner ear . When the stapes presses on the oval window, it causes the perilymph, the liquid of the inner ear to move . The middle ear thus serves to convert the energy from sound pressure waves to a force upon the perilymph of the inner ear . The oval window has only approximately 1 / 18 the area of the tympanic membrane and thus produces a higher pressure . The cochlea propagates these mechanical signals as waves in the fluid and membranes, and then converts them to nerve impulses which are transmitted to the brain . </P> <P> The vestibular system is the region of the inner ear where the semicircular canals converge, close to the cochlea . The vestibular system works with the visual system to keep objects in view when the head is moved . Joint and muscle receptors are also important in maintaining balance . The brain receives, interprets, and processes the information from all these systems to create the sensation of balance . </P>

Which part of the ear separates the middle ear from the inner ear
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