The generation of random numbers has many uses (mostly in statistics, for random sampling, and simulation). Before modern computing, researchers requiring random numbers would either generate them through various means (dice, cards, roulette wheels, etc.) or use existing random number tables.
Yawning, swallowing or chewing helps open the small canal (Eustachian tube) which connects your middle ear in the inner side of the ear drum, and equalizes the pressure with the outer side and causes the sensation of ears popping when swallowing.
Unless you have actually damaged your eardrums due to barotrauma, then ear popping may just be due to your body trying to relieve pressure in your ears. Pressure difference between the outside of ear drum and the Eustachian tube inside can occur while flying or climbing high altitudes or diving underwater.