What system in the ear helps maintain balance?

The vestibular system is the part of the ear responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. It consists of structures within the inner ear, including the semicircular canals and otolith organs, which detect motion, equilibrium, and changes in head position. This system sends information to the brain about head movements and position relative to gravity, which is crucial for balance.

While the cochlear system is involved in hearing and the auditory system processes sound, neither of these systems directly contributes to balance. The tympanic system, which relates to the eardrum and middle ear, plays a role in hearing rather than balance. Therefore, the vestibular system is the correct answer as it specifically addresses the maintenance of balance in the body.