Question

Give reason for this: Rings of cartilage are present in the throat.

Answer 1

Reason for Rings of Cartilage in the Throat:
The rings of cartilage in the throat, specifically in the trachea (windpipe), play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the airway and ensuring that it remains open for the passage of air to and from the lungs.

The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the throat (pharynx) to the bronchi of the lungs. It is composed of a series of C-shaped rings of cartilage that are stacked on top of each other. These cartilage rings provide strength and prevent the trachea from collapsing due to the negative pressure inside the airway during breathing.

The C-shape of the rings allows for the flexibility of the trachea, while the open part at the back of the rings enables the trachea to remain rigid and maintain its shape. The back of the cartilage rings is adjacent to the esophagus, which is the tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach. The flexibility at the back of the trachea allows the esophagus to expand when swallowing food or liquid, without obstructing the air passage.

This combination of rigidity in the front and flexibility at the back of the trachea ensures that the air passage remains open at all times, facilitating the smooth flow of air while allowing the necessary movement and expansion of the esophagus when food is swallowed.

In summary, the rings of cartilage in the trachea are essential for preventing airway collapse, providing structural support, and maintaining the required flexibility for normal respiratory and digestive functions.