What is Larynx?
{{for|another organ|pharynx}} [[File:Larynx external en.svg|thumb|400px|Larynx]] The '''larynx''' (plural ''larynges''), also known as the '''voice box''', is an [[organ (anatomy)|organ]] in the [[Neck (body part)|neck]] of [[human]]s and animals. It helps to protect the [[vertebrate trachea|wind pipe]] by stopping it from inhaling food. It also helps with breathing and making sounds. The larynx houses the [[vocal folds|vocal cords]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Voice box: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Image|url=https://medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/19708.htm|access-date=2024-05-26|website=medlineplus.gov|language=en}}</ref> {{Infobox anatomy | Name = Larynx | Latin = larynx | Greek = λάρυγξ | Width = | Image2 = | pronunciation = {{IPAc-en|ˈ|l|æ|r|ɪ|ŋ|k|s}} | Caption2 = | Precursor = | System = | Artery = | Vein = | Nerve = | Lymph = }} == Function == The larynx makes the [[voice]]. Both [[pitch (music)|pitch]] and [[loudness]] are controlled here. It has a small slit through which air passes and makes the vocal cords vibrate. The vibrating vocal cords make the air vibrate. This sound changes as it travels through the [[vocal tract]]. It becomes a different sound based on the position of the [[tongue]], [[lips]], [[mouth]], and [[pharynx]]. When [[swallow]]ing, the backward motion of the tongue forces part of the larynx called the [[epiglottis]] to cover up the opening to the larynx, also called the laryngeal opening. This is to stop the food swallowed from entering the [[lung]]s. The larynx is also pulled upwards to help with this process. If the larynx is irritated by something that is swallowed, a strong [[cough]] [[reflex]] is used to protect the lungs. == Disorders of the larynx== There are several things that can cause a larynx to not function properly.<ref>Laitman, J.T. and Reidenberg, J.S. (1993) Specializations of the human upper respiratory and upper digestive tract as seen through comparative and developmental anatomy. Dysphagia 8:318-