2. THROAT (PHARYNX)
The throat (pharynx) is a muscular tube that runs from the back of your nose
down into your neck. It contains three (3) sections: the nasopharynx, oropharynx
and laryngopharynx, which is also called the hypopharynx.
3. ESOPHAGUS (FOOD PIPE)
The esophagus is a muscular tube extending from the throat to
the stomach. The average length is 10 in / 25 cm, about the
length of a long cucumber. It performs a wave of sequenced
contractions. Those moves are called peristalsis. It moves the
food from the throat to the stomach. When you swallow food, the
upper esophageal sphincter (bundle of muscles) opens automatically
which prevents the air you breathe going into stomach.
That muscle keeps the food going forward. There is also the lower esophageal
sphincter that is the last gateway before the stomach. This ingenious lower ”gate”
prevents the stomach acids returning to the esophagus.
