Like all body parts, the larynx and trachea are very important. They are some of the more recognizable body parts when it comes to basic anatomy knowledge. 

Larynx

The larynx is most commonly known as our voice box as it holds our vocal cords. With more studies, the cords themselves are to be thought of as folds. It is made of muscles, cartilage and elastic tissues that bind together. Starting either from our nose or mouth, oxygen passes through our larynx then past the trachea leading to the bronchi then lungs. The larynx acts a a sort of lid to the trachea to help keep from anything entering the lungs. Superior to the larynx is the hyoid bone.

Trachea

Inferior to the larynx, the trachea is also part of the respiratory system. Its length and function has earned it the title as the windpipe. On the inside, the trachea is lined with a smooth, moist tissue called mucosa. The outside rings are made of muscle and connective tissue. Not to be confused with the esophagus, the sole purpose of the trachea is to provide a clear airway for oxygen to enter the lungs. The esophagus is part of the digestive system and is a muscular tube behind the trachea. 

Fun Facts

-When the trachea is irritated, there are small explosions known to us as coughs.

-Whispering makes your vocal folds work harder than speaking normally. 

-If spread out all the way end to end, the branching system within our respiratory system would stretch all the way starting form Minneapolis, MN to Los Angeles, CA. Over 2,400 kilometers of airway!

-To speak, the larynx must be closed.