Pharynx and Larynx

The pharynx and Larynx are two parts of the human throat. The pharynx and larynx are connected by a passageway known as the glottis. Both the Pharynx and Larynx contain tightly clustered vocal cords which stretch out to aid in voice production or vibration. This article will highlight the concept of Pharynx and Larynx along with their differences.

What is Pharynx?

The pharynx is the part of the human body that leads to the larynx. The pharynx is a small passageway which connects the mouth to the larynx. The pharynx is formed by cartilage and muscles within your throat. It contains our digestive tract, esophagus, tonsils, and nasal cavity. The pharynx contains the muscles that raise and lower our larynx. As a result, the jaw sets and moves our larynx to create sounds.

Functions of Pharynx

The Pharynx’s primary function is to 

• facilitate swallowing 
• place food into the esophagus 
• aids in breathing 
• aids in tasting 
• aids in speech

A majority of the food we consume passes through your pharynx. The substances that make it pass through are smaller than what is currently being consumed by you. In order for your body to swallow, food must pass through your pharynx. Thus, it’s vital for you to keep an eye on what you eat at all times.

What is Larynx?

The larynx is the part of the human body that leads to the trachea. The larynx is also a small passageway which connects the mouth and airways to the trachea. The trachea is known as a vocal organ. It is responsible for breathing through your lungs. Breathing through your mouth and nose can be very dangerous.

Functions of Larynx

The larynx’s primary function is to 

• house the vocal cords and create sounds 
• create air pressure for breathing
• aids in speaking 
• aids in speech (stimulates nerve endings of the larynx to help produce sound)

The larynx is situated at the bottom of your throat. It is responsible for producing sound. All sounds that you hear, including your voice and voices that others hear, are created by the larynx. It also houses a group of nerve endings, known as vocal cords. The vocal cords are made up of muscle fibres that control your voice, known as glottis. They help bend to position and govern your voice’s pitch.

Pharynx and Larynx: Difference

Shape

The pharynx and larynx can be measured by their length, width and size. From the picture above you will discover that the pharynx is a lot smaller than the larynx.  

Location

The location of both the pharynx and larynx are different from one another. The pharynx is located behind your nose, mouth and trachea. The larynx on the other hand is found at the bottom of your throat.

Function

The pharynx is a passageway of the human body, which helps food travel down to your stomach. While the larynx helps with speech and breathing.

Size

The size of both the pharynx and larynx are different from one another. The pharynx is smaller in size compared to the larynx.  

Cartilage

The pharynx has cartilage whereas the larynx does not have any.

Structure

The pharynx is made up of cartilages and muscles, while the larynx derives its support from the hyoid bone.  

Food passage

Food passes through the pharynx, while it is passed through the larynx.

Location of Esophageal Sphincter

The pharynx and esophagus are located together. The esophagus is located at the end of your chest and ends at your stomach. It has an area called the esophageal sphincter that seals up your food passage. Some foods pass through the pharynx, while some pass through the esophagus. A person can easily identify their pharynx from their esophagi because it’s almost always wider. In addition, you will always feel a pop when something goes down, especially if it’s soft.

Conclusion

Therefore, the pharynx and larynx are two different organs of the body. It is important that you examine your pharynx regularly as it plays a vital role in your health. The diseases that occur in this organ can have dire consequences if not treated quickly.