Difference Between Pharynx And Larynx: Overview, Definition & Divisions

Understanding the difference between the pharynx and larynx, especially as associated with human anatomy, is vital to understanding other aspects of the respiratory and digestive systems. The following write-up makes it easier to understand the anatomy, functions, and importance of the two structures. This is one of the topics from the Digestion and Absorption chapter of Biology.

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This Story also Contains

1. Basics concept of Larynx and Pharynx
2. Anatomy of Larynx and Pharynx
3. Difference between Pharynx and Larynx

Basics concept of Larynx and Pharynx

Sites of the pharynx are the muscle tubes within the body and serve the respiratory and digestive systems it extends from the skull base to the oesophagus and is further divisible into three parts such as; nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx.

The larynx is commonly known as the voice box. It is located inferior to the pharynx. The larynx plays an important role in phonation, air passage, and protecting the lower airways. The main structures of the larynx include the thyroid cartilage, the cricoid cartilage, the epiglottis, and the vocal cords.

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Anatomy of Larynx and Pharynx

The anatomy of both pharynx and larynx has been discussed below:

Anatomy of the Pharynx

The pharynx lies just posterior to the nasal and oral cavities. It is a region of the throat that connects the nasal cavity and the mouth to the larynx and oesophagus. The pharynx can be divided into three regions:

• Nasopharynx: The superior region of the pharynx that is associated with the nasal cavity

• Oropharynx: The middle region of the pharynx that is associated with the mouth

• Laryngopharynx: The inferior region of the pharynx that connects to the larynx and oesophagus

Anatomy of the Larynx

The larynx is located just inferior to the pharynx and anterior to the oesophagus. The larynx is constructed of

• Thyroid cartilage: This is the largest cartilage, and it is commonly referred to as the Adam's apple.

• Cricoid cartilage: Ring-like cartilage that is inferior to the thyroid cartilage

• Epiglottis: A flap that closes over the trachea when swallowing

• Vocal cords: Folds of tissue that produce sound.

Difference between Pharynx and Larynx

Some of the major difference between the pharynx and the Larynx is discussed below:

The pharynx and larynx are important structures in the human body, with rather different functions. At the same time, the pharynx generally performs a primary role during deglutition and as a defence of the body against infection, while the larynx primarily functions in voice production and the protection of airways.

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