How many semicircular canals are present in each ear?

Each human ear contains three semicircular canals. These canals are integral components of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and providing the brain with information about the position and movement of the head. The semicircular canals are oriented at right angles to each other, allowing them to detect rotational movements in three dimensions—pitch, roll, and yaw.

The presence of three canals—lateral, anterior, and posterior—ensures that the vestibular system can effectively sense motion. This anatomical arrangement is vital for maintaining equilibrium and coordinating balance while performing various maneuvers, particularly important in aviation where pilots must be aware of their spatial orientation under various flight conditions.