Larynx
The larynx, also known as the voice box, is a cartilaginous structure located in the neck [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am It plays a crucial role in the production of sound and the regulation of airflow during breathing [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The larynx connects the pharynx to the trachea, allowing air to pass through and enter the lungs [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am
The anatomy of the larynx consists of several pieces of cartilage [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The three major cartilage pieces are the thyroid cartilage, epiglottis, and cricoid cartilage [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The thyroid cartilage, which includes the prominent Adam's apple, is the largest piece of cartilage in the larynx [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The cricoid cartilage forms a ring-shaped structure with a wider posterior region and a thinner anterior region [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am Additionally, there are three smaller, paired cartilages called the arytenoids, corniculates, and cuneiforms, which attach to the epiglottis and the vocal cords [[1]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am
The larynx contains various structures that are involved in sound production. The glottis, composed of the vestibular folds (false vocal cords) and the true vocal cords, is responsible for producing sound [[2]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The vestibular folds are folded sections of mucous membrane, while the true vocal cords are membranous folds attached to the thyroid and arytenoid cartilages [[2]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The true vocal cords have free inner edges that can oscillate, producing sound when air passes through them [[2]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The size of the membranous folds of the true vocal cords can vary between individuals, resulting in different pitch ranges of voices [[6]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am
During swallowing, the pharynx and larynx work together to ensure that food and beverages do not enter the trachea [[6]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am The pharynx and larynx lift upward, allowing the pharynx to expand, and the epiglottis of the larynx swings downward, closing the opening to the trachea [[6]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am This movement creates a larger area for food to pass through while preventing it from entering the trachea [[6]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am
If you would like to visualize the anatomy of the larynx, you can refer to the 3D model available at this link: [[4]](https://poe.com/citation?messa....ge_id=97641396378&am It provides an interactive view of the larynx, allowing you to explore its structures in detail.
I hope this information helps you understand the role and anatomy of the larynx. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
