Difference Between Pharynx and Larynx

Pharynx vs Larynx

The pharynx is part of the throat that leads from the cavities of the mouth and nose to the larynx and the esophagus. It is found behind the mouth and nasal cavity and is superior to the larynx, esophagus, and trachea. It is divided into three parts which are: the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and the laryngopharynx. It is part of both the respiratory and digestive systems and also plays a role in vocalization. It terminates at the level of the sixth vertebra. It is 12cm long and is narrowest at the point where it terminates into the esophagus. The nasopharynx extends from the base of the skull to the upper surface of the soft palate. The oropharynx lies behind the oral cavity and extends from the uvula to the level of the hyoid bone. Anteriorly, it opens into the mouth. The laryngopharynx is the lower part and lies inferior to the epiglottis. It extends to a point where the path divides into the digestive (esophagus) and respiratory (larynx) systems. It then continues with the esophagus. On the other hand, the larynx is the voice box and is also involved in sound production, breathing, and protection of the trachea from food which is aspirated. It has the vocal cords and manipulates volume and pitch. These are found just below the point where the pharynx divides into the esophagus and trachea. It is situated at the level of C3-C6 anterior to the neck. It has nine cartilages and is connected to the hyoid bone. It extends from the epiglottis to the cricoid cartilage.
Summary

1.The pharynx and the larynx are both part of the throat.
2.The pharynx is found from behind the mouth and continues with the esophagus whilst the larynx is found at the level of C3-C6.
3.The pharynx is part of both the digestive and respiratory systems whilst the larynx is not.
4.The larynx protects the trachea against aspirated food.
5.The larynx is involved in sound production, breathing, and protection of the trachea from food which is aspirated whilst the pharynx takes no part in all of these except in vocalization.
6.The pharynx continues with the esophagus whilst the larynx is not continuous with any system.
7.The walls of the larynx are made of cartilage whilst the pharynx is made of muscle.
8.The larynx contains the vocal cords and none are found in the pharynx.
9.Both the pharynx and larynx take part in the process of swallowing.

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