The tongue is made up of intrinsic and extrinsic muscles and has a mucous membrane covering it. It is connected to a floating bone known as the hyoid bone. The hyoid connects to the skull via the stylohyoid bone, which helps determine how the tongue moves during speech. The intrinsic muscles of the tongue are responsible for its flexibility while the extrinsic muscles control its position in the mouth. The fibers of these muscles run vertically, connecting the base of the tongue with the back of the throat (or hypopharynx). In addition, there are several ligaments that connect the base of the tongue to other parts of the pharynx and mouth. These include the fibro-cartilaginous epiglottis, which projects into the airway at the top of the oropharynx and prevents the tongue from blocking the airway when you sleep; the thyrohyoid ligament, which connects the thyroid cartilage to the hyoid bone; and the sternothyroid muscle and internal carotid artery, which run along either side of the neck behind the voice box (larynx). In conclusion, the tongue is an important part of the respiratory system that contributes to many different functions including swallowing, breathing, and speaking.