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pharynx
(farŽinks)
the musculomembranous cavity, about 12.5 cm (5 inches) long, behind the nasal cavities, mouth, and larynx, communicating with them and with the esophagus.The pharynx may be divided into three areas: the nasopharynx above; the oropharynx in the middle, behind the mouth; and the laryngopharynx below. The nasopharynx is connected with the nasal cavities and provides a passage for air during breathing. The oropharynx and laryngopharynx provide passageways for both air and food. The pharynx also functions as a resonating organ in speech. It is separated from the mouth by the soft palate and the uvula, a fleshy V-shaped extension or flap that hangs from the posterior roof of the mouth, above the root of the tongue. In swallowing, the uvula lifts up and closes off the nasopharynx so that food can pass from the mouth through the lower parts of the pharynx to the esophagus. Called alsothroat.
Pharynx, divided into the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.
Copyright 2007. An Elsevier publication. All rights reserved.
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