The trachea is a long membranous tube that extends from the larynx to the bronchial tubes and transports air to and from the lungs. The windpipe is another name for the trachea. The word "windpipe" comes from the fact that it looks like a pipe that winds its way down your neck into your chest. The pharynx is the upper part of the throat behind the mouth. It connects with the nasal cavity and the oropharynx (the portion of the pharynx between the mouth and the esophagus). The pharynx consists of three main parts: the nasopharynx, the oropharynx, and the hypopharynx. The larynx is the voice box located in the middle of the chest. It is a cartilaginous ring shaped structure that supports five vocal cords. The larynx divides into two portions: the epiglottis covers the top of the larynx and prevents food from entering the trachea; the arytenoid cartilages are two flat plates that support the vocal cords. The muscles of the larynx open and close the glottis, the hole through which sound leaves the body. The trachea is the main conduit for air to reach all parts of the body.