Which of the following are known as auditory ossicles?

The auditory ossicles are a group of three small bones located in the middle ear that play a critical role in the process of hearing. These bones are known for their specific names: malleus (also called the hammer), incus (the anvil), and stapes (the stirrup).

The correct choice identifies both the stapes and incus, which are indeed two of the three auditory ossicles. The malleus, while not mentioned in this option, is also an auditory ossicle alongside the other two. Collectively, these bones form a chain that transmits sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, amplifying the sound in the process.

In contrast, the other options either refer to bones that are not part of the auditory ossicles or describe incorrect pairings. The term "hammer and anvil," while commonly used to describe the malleus and incus respectively, does not accurately encompass all auditory ossicles. Therefore, while it does mention elements of the ossicle chain, it does not provide a complete or accurate representation. The stapes and malleus are referenced together in one of the choices, but again, the omission of the incus does not reflect the complete group of auditory