Location and General Functions of the Larynx.
The larynx is a short, muscular tube that is located in the throat, below the base of the hyoid bone and tongue and anterior to the esophagus. It is made up of several supportive cartilages, ligaments, muscles, and a mucosal lining.
Its primary function is to conduct air between the pharynx and trachea.
During the swallowing process, the larynx carefully guards the opening to the lower respiratory tract so food and drink cannot enter.
The thick walls of the larynx also support the vocal folds and ligaments that produce the voice.
