The diaphragm is the movable and extremely lightweight membrane located inside the capsule of a microphone, acting as the mechanical equivalent of the human eardrum. Its primary function is to physically respond to variations in the pressure of sound waves, vibrating in sympathy with the sound it receives. This mechanical energy generated by the diaphragm's movement is subsequently converted into an electrical signal through the microphone's transducer system. The nature of this conversion depends on the type of technology employed, which can be electromagnetic, as in dynamic moving-coil and ribbon microphones, or electrostatic, as in condenser and electret microphones. The thickness, material, and weight of the diaphragm are decisive factors that determine the transient response and overall fidelity of the microphone.