Which cartilages protect the larynx?

The thyroid and cricoid cartilages play a vital role in protecting the larynx. The thyroid cartilage, commonly referred to as the "Adam's apple," is the largest cartilage of the larynx and provides a shield-like structure in the front, contributing to the protection of the vocal cords located inside the larynx. The cricoid cartilage, which sits just below the thyroid cartilage, forms a complete ring around the airway and secures the structure of the larynx, preventing collapse and maintaining an open airway.

These two cartilages work together to not only protect the delicate components of the larynx but also to support functions such as phonation (the production of sound) and breathing. Other options like the epiglottic and arytenoid cartilages are involved in various functional aspects, such as directing food and liquids away from the airway during swallowing, but they do not primarily fulfill the protective role of the larynx. Similarly, tracheal and bronchial cartilages support the trachea and bronchi, while lingual and pharyngeal cartilages are associated with the tongue and pharynx, respectively. Therefore, the thyroid and cricoid cartilages are