Question

What is the function of Nasopharynx?

Answer 1

Hint: Nasopharynx as the name suggests is a tubular structure which is situated from the back of the nose and soft palate. It is a long tube starting from the nose to the larynx of the respiratory system. Nasopharynx role is to transfer air from nose to larynx. As we know, the nose detects the odor and fragrances along with air and filters the air and sends it to the lungs.

Complete answer-
The respiratory tract contains nose, nasal cavity and larynx and pharynx. The nasopharynx is the most superior portion of the pharynx which is guarded by skull base and soft palate inferiorly. The nasopharynx acts as the connecting link between the nasal cavity and oropharynx. Oropharynx have Eustachian tube openings and adenoids.
Structure of nasopharynx-
The nasopharynx is lined with epithelial cells that occupy the upper extent of the aerodigestive tract. The top of the nasopharynx is made of hard palate and soft palate both and the ridges of pharyngeal musculature which opposes the soft palate. The nasopharynx is directly connected to the middle ear cavity by eustachian tubes.
The nasopharynx is $2$ to $3cm$ wider and in length it is $3$ to $4$cm long. Behind the nasal cavity it is situated in the occipital bone. The nasopharynx mostly carries respiratory functions where it remains open even when the muscles flex. When a person breathes the respiratory mechanism continues to perform smoothly due to nasopharynx.

Note:
As we discussed the nasopharynx functions, the nasopharynx is surrounded by a fold called salpingopharyngeal fold and also tonsils. Tonsils can become flamed when infected. Also, apart from helping in respiration, the nasopharynx provides a path of drainage for all the lymphatic fluids which generally drains through the nose or ears.