- The sensory hair cells of the vestibular system are primarily located in the semicircular canals and otolith organs.
- These hair cells play a crucial role in detecting head movements and maintaining balance.

- The semicircular canals contain specialized structures called the crista ampullaris, where hair cells detect rotational movements of the head.
- The otolith organs, which include the utricle and saccule, contain the maculae, where hair cells respond to linear acceleration and gravity.

- These hair cells are embedded in a gelatinous layer topped with tiny calcium carbonate crystals called otoconia in the otolith organs, enhancing their sensitivity to linear movement.
- When the head moves, the displacement of the hair cells' stereocilia generates nerve impulses transmitted via the vestibulocochlear nerve to the brain for processing balance information.

In contrast:
- The cochlear duct and tectorial membrane are part of the auditory system, involved in hearing rather than balance.
- The external auditory canal and tympanic membrane are components of the outer ear responsible for sound conduction.
- The vestibulocochlear nerve and spiral ganglion transmit signals but do not contain the sensory hair cells themselves.

Understanding the localization of these hair cells is fundamental in comprehending how the vestibular system functions in equilibrium and spatial orientation.