What is the Pharynx and the Larynx?
Before we start learning about the Pharynx and larynx, it is essential to learn what the Pharynx and Larynx. These are the two organs situated in the area around the neck region of a human body. The Pharynx is a part of the alimentary canal, while the Larynx is a portion of the trachea.
The Pharynx is located posterior to the oral and nasal cavities, forming part of the digestive and respiratory systems. It acts as a common channel for swallowing and respiration. The Pharynx is divided into three regions – The nasopharynx, Oropharynx, and Laryngopharynx.
Whereas, the Larynx connects the lower part of the Pharynx with the trachea. It not only acts as a valve to the passage of air but also helps in the process of vocalization and swallowing. The Larynx is divided into three parts – supraglottis, glottis, and subglottis.
Differences between the Pharynx and Larynx
There are several similarities between the Pharynx and the Larynx, yet there are many ways in which these two organs are different from each other. These organs are very essential for the proper functioning of the human respiratory and the digestive system. The table of differences between the Pharynx and Larynx which has been prepared by experts of Vedantu is
Pharynx vs Larynx
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FAQs on Difference Between Pharynx and Larynx
1. What is Pharynx?
Within the pharynx larynx trachea, pharynx is a tubular muscular passage between the nasal cavity and mouth.
2. Mention the Role of Larynx.
Even though pharynx and larynx anatomy is largely similar, the latter plays a distinct role. It is a passage for air and contains vocal cords acting as the "voice box".
3. What are the similarities between Pharynx and the larynx?
Despite all of the differences mentioned between the pharynx and the larynx, there are also many similarities that must be noted from the perspective of biology students who are doing a study of this topic. The most prominent similarities between the two organs are:
The Pharynx and larynx are both located inside the throat.
They both perform a common function of swallowing.
Both the pharynx and larynx are instrumental in allowing the air for breathing.
4. What are the different parts of the Pharynx?
The Pharynx can be said to be divided into three regions, i.e. the Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, and Laryngopharynx. These groups are:
1. Nasopharynx- It is the posterior part of the nasal cavity and when the nasopharyngeal tonsils are enlarged, those are called adenoids which cause a restriction in the respiration process.
2. Oropharynx- The Oropharynx merges with epiglottis. The tonsil is lodged between the two arches of the oropharynx.
3. Laryngopharynx - The Laryngopharynx extends from the epiglottis and merges with the oesophagus.
5. What are the functions of the larynx?
The larynx is an important organ in the human anatomy that helps us not only in the respiratory but also in the digestive system. The vestibular folds in the larynx are also known as false vocal cords. The main function of the larynx is that it performs a protective function by lowering the airways, It facilitates respiratory function with the help of vocal cords and it conducts phonatory functions with the help of vocal cords.
5. What are the different parts of the larynx?
The larynx is an organ that connects the lower part of the pharynx with the trachea. It helps not only in the respiratory but also in the digestive process. The three main parts of the larynx are:
1. Supraglottis - It lies just above the vocal cord containing the epiglottis cartilage.
2. Glottis - It pertains to the area near the vocal cord.
3. Subglottis - It is the area beneath the vocal cord which contains the cricoid cartilage.
