What is The Pharynx?

BY Team Aakash Byju's

Pharynx:  The pharynx is the common passage of the digestive and respiratory systems. Generally, it is called throat.

The nasal cavity passes air into the pharynx. Warming and moistening of inhaled air go on in this part.

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From the pharynx, there are two passages, beginning with a nearly same opening but ending divided into two ways.

One passage opens into the windpipe, and another passage opens into the oesophagus.

A small flap-like structure is present at the pharynx. It is known as epiglottis.

Epiglottis controls the movement of food and air. It allows food into the food pipe and air into the windpipe.

1. The pharynx passes food from mouth to oesophagus.

Functions of the Pharynx

2. The pharynx carries inhaled air from the nasal cavity to the trachea.

3. The pharynx allows liquids such as water and juices into the digestive system.

4. It corresponds to pressure in the ears and also exhausts fluids from the ears.