Do you know the difference between larynx and pharynx? These two important parts of your throat have different roles. This simple guide explains what they are and how to use these words correctly.
Larynx vs. Pharynx: The Basics
What Is the Larynx?
Definition:
The larynx is the part of your throat that contains the vocal cords. It is sometimes called the voice box.
Where is it located?
The larynx is located just below the pharynx and above the trachea (windpipe).
You can feel it from the outside as the “Adam’s apple,” especially in men.
Functions of the larynx:
- Voice production: The vocal cords vibrate to create sound when you speak.
- Air passage: It allows air to move between your throat and lungs.
- Protection: The larynx keeps food and liquids from entering your windpipe when you swallow.
Example sentence:
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The larynx helps you speak by making sounds with your vocal cords.
What Is the Pharynx?
Definition:
The pharynx is the muscular tube that connects your nose and mouth to the esophagus (food pipe) and the larynx (voice box).
Where is it located?
The pharynx is behind your nasal cavity and mouth and extends down to the larynx and esophagus.
Sections of the pharynx:
- Nasopharynx: Upper part, behind the nose.
- Oropharynx: Middle part, behind the mouth.
- Laryngopharynx: Lower part, leading to the larynx and esophagus.
Functions of the pharynx:
- Swallowing: Moves food from the mouth to the esophagus.
- Breathing: Passes air from the nose and mouth to the larynx.
- Protection: Traps dust and microbes in mucus to keep the lungs clean.
Example sentence:
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The pharynx plays a role in both breathing and swallowing.
Larynx vs. Pharynx: The Main Differences
| Aspect | Larynx | Pharynx |
|---|---|---|
| Nickname | Voice box | Throat |
| Location | Below the pharynx, above the trachea | Behind nose and mouth, above larynx/esophagus |
| Function | Produces sound, protects airway | Moves air and food, helps swallowing |
| Contains | Vocal cords | Three sections: nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx |
| Involved in | Speaking, breathing | Breathing, swallowing, immune defense |
| Example | The larynx lets you talk | The pharynx guides food and air |
Example Sentences for Practice
Larynx:
- The larynx is also called the voice box.
- When you speak, your larynx creates vibrations.
- Doctors can look at your larynx with a special mirror.
Pharynx:
- Food passes through the pharynx when you swallow.
- The pharynx connects the mouth to the esophagus.
- The pharynx also helps you breathe.
Related Vocabulary
Related to Larynx:
-
Vocal cords: Tissues that vibrate to produce sound.
Example: Your vocal cords are inside the larynx. -
Epiglottis: Flap that closes to keep food out of the windpipe.
Example: The epiglottis protects your airway when you swallow. -
Trachea: The windpipe that carries air to the lungs.
Example: Air goes from the larynx into the trachea.
Related to Pharynx:
-
Nasopharynx: Upper part behind the nose.
Example: The nasopharynx connects your nose to your throat. -
Oropharynx: Middle part behind the mouth.
Example: The oropharynx helps with swallowing. -
Esophagus: The tube that carries food to the stomach.
Example: Food passes from the pharynx into the esophagus.
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