Larynx

The **larynx** is a cartilaginous structure inferior to the laryngopharynx, connecting the pharynx to the trachea and helping to regulate airflow into and out of the lungs. The structure of the larynx is formed by several pieces of cartilage. Three large cartilage pieces, the thyroid cartilage (anterior), epiglottis (superior) and cricoid cartilage (inferior), form the major structure of the larynx. The thyroid cartilage, the largest laryngeal cartilage, includes the laryngeal prominence, or "Adam's apple", which is typically more pronounced in males. The cricoid cartilage forms a complete ring, with a wide posterior and a narrower anterior region. Three smaller, paired cartilages, the arytenoids, corniculates and cuneiforms-, attach to the epiglottis and vocal cords, along with muscles that enable the movement of the vocal cords necessary for speech. *LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS CC licensed content, Shared previously, Heather Ketchum and Eric Bright, Organs and Structures of the Respiratory System, Authored by: OpenStax College. License: CC BY: Attribution. License Terms: Download for free at http://cnx.org/contents/VflMihYl@1/OU-Human-Physiology-Organs-and* ## Keywords glottis larynx hyoid ligament thyroid cartilage ring tracheal cartilage glottal