Introduction:
When we are on an airplane, many of us experience a sensation of our ears getting blocked and then popping. This can be quite uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. But why does this happen? Let's delve into the details to understand the reasons behind this phenomenon.

Reason:
The main reason behind our ears getting blocked and then popping in an airplane is the rapid changes in altitude during takeoff and landing. Our ears have small air-filled spaces called the middle ear, which are connected to the back of our throats by a narrow passage called the Eustachian tube. This tube helps equalize the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

Equalizing Air Pressure:
When the airplane ascends or descends, the air pressure in the cabin changes rapidly. However, the air pressure inside our middle ear remains relatively stable initially, causing a difference in pressure between the middle ear and the cabin. This pressure imbalance is what leads to the sensation of blocked ears.

Eustachian Tube and its Function:
The Eustachian tube plays a crucial role in equalizing the air pressure in our middle ear. Normally, it remains closed, but when we swallow, yawn, or chew, the muscles around the Eustachian tube contract, opening it briefly. This allows air to flow in or out, equalizing the pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

Blocked Ears:
However, during takeoff or landing, the rapid changes in altitude can make it difficult for the Eustachian tube to open and close quickly enough to equalize the pressure effectively. As a result, the pressure in the middle ear becomes lower or higher than the surrounding cabin pressure, causing a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ears.

Popping Sensation:
When we consciously or subconsciously try to equalize the pressure in our ears by swallowing, yawning, or chewing, the Eustachian tube opens, allowing air to flow in or out. This sudden equalization of pressure causes the ears to "pop," relieving the blocked sensation and restoring normal hearing.

Conclusion:
In summary, our ears get blocked and then pop in an airplane due to the rapid changes in altitude, which create a pressure imbalance between the middle ear and the cabin. The Eustachian tube helps equalize this pressure, but during takeoff or landing, it may struggle to adjust quickly enough, leading to a sensation of blocked ears. Swallowing, yawning, or chewing can help open the Eustachian tube and relieve the blockage, resulting in the ears popping and restoring normal hearing.