Question

Write a short note on the larynx.

Answer 1

Hint: Larynx also known as the voice box. Larynx is a hollow, tubular structure connected to the top of the trachea (windpipe). It serves as a passage for air to the lungs. Epiglottis a cartilaginous flap that covers the opening of Larynx & prevents the entry of food into the air passage.

Complete answer:

The larynx is known as a voice box or glottis. It forms the passageway for air between the pharynx (upper portion) and the trachea (lower part). It is situated between the fourth to the sixth vertebral levels. The larynx region is divided into three sections: sub larynx, larynx, and supra larynx. Constituted by nine cartilages connected by muscles and ligaments.
The larynx plays an essential role in speech and sound production. It is characterised with the presence of a protruding structure called Adam's Apple. The epiglottis is a cover to prevent food and other particles from entering the larynx.
Larynx contains the vocal cords. The larynx measures about 5 cm long. Larynx is part of the respiratory system. The outer wall of cartilage forms the protruding structure in the ventral portion of the neck called Adam's apple.

Note: The larynx is located in the anterior aspect of the neck, anterior to the inferior portion of the pharynx and superior to the trachea. The primary function is to protect the lower respiratory passage by closing it, if suddenly stimulated. Hence it halts respiration and prevents the entry of food particles in the passage. Other functions of the larynx include the phonation, coughing, and control of ventilation. The larynx consists of
> 3 large, unpaired cartilages (cricoid, thyroid, epiglottis)
> 3 pairs of smaller cartilages (arytenoids, corniculate, cuneiform)
> number of intrinsic muscles.