The ceruminous glands in the external auditory canal produce?

• A. They dampen sound waves.
• B. They transport air into the middle ear.
• C. They produce waxy cerumen for protection.
• D. They secrete enzymes that digest earwax.

Answer: (C)

Ceruminous glands in the external auditory canal are specialized sweat glands that secrete a waxy substance called cerumen. This cerumen mixes with other secretions to form earwax, which protects the ear by trapping dust and debris, lubricating the canal to prevent drying, and providing antimicrobial properties that help guard against infection. It also helps waterproof the canal and protect the tympanic membrane.

Damping sound is mainly the job of the tympanic membrane and middle ear mechanics, not earwax. Air transport into the middle ear is handled by the Eustachian tube, not ceruminous glands. Earwax isn’t produced or modified by digestive enzymes.