What occurs to the air in the external ear canal after equalization at altitude during a descent?

When discussing what occurs to the air in the external ear canal during a descent following equalization at altitude, it's important to understand the dynamics of pressure changes. During a descent, the ambient pressure increases compared to the pressure in the external ear canal. Even though equalization techniques, such as yawning or swallowing, help balance the pressure between the inner ear and the external ear canal, the air in the external ear canal does not remain at a pressure that is greater than that in the inner ear if equalization has been successful.

However, as the aircraft descends, the air pressure in the cabin—and thereby the external ear canal—adjusts in accordance with the increased external pressure. This means that during a rapid descent, if equalization is not maintained effectively, the pressure in the external ear canal could remain lower than that in the inner ear, leading to discomfort due to pressure differentials.

While factors such as the temperature of the air may vary, the crucial aspect is the relationship between pressure in the external ear canal and that of the inner ear. Without successful equalization, the air pressure in the external ear canal would not exceed that of the inner ear. Therefore, option C reflects the common misconception but doesn't hold in the context of successful equalization