What function does the inner ear serve?

The inner ear plays a crucial role in both balance and hearing, which makes it the correct answer. The inner ear consists of the cochlea and the vestibular system. The cochlea is responsible for the auditory function, converting sound waves into nerve signals that the brain interprets as sound. Meanwhile, the vestibular system, which includes structures such as the semicircular canals, helps maintain balance and spatial orientation by detecting changes in head position and motion. This dual function of processing auditory information and assisting with balance is essential for overall sensory integration and coordination.