2.1 Structure and function of the outer and middle ear. Figure 1 is a diagram of the human ear. The outer ear consists of the visible part of the ear or pinna, the external auditory canal (meatus) , and the tympanic membrane (tympanum) or eardrum.The human pinna is formed primarily of cartilage and is attached to the head by muscles and ligaments.igure 1 is a diagram of the human ear. The outer ear consists of the visible part of the ear or pinna, the external auditory canal (meatus) , and the tympanic membrane (tympanum) or eardrum.