Which part of the pharynx is found specifically behind the nasal cavity?

The nasopharynx is the section of the pharynx located specifically behind the nasal cavity. It serves as a passageway for air that is inhaled through the nose, leading to the oropharynx and down into the larynx and trachea. The nasopharynx also has important functions relating to the respiratory system, acting as a filter for air and housing the adenoids, which contribute to the immune response.

In contrast, the oropharynx is located behind the oral cavity and is involved in both the respiratory and digestive systems. The laryngopharynx is found below the oropharynx, connecting to the esophagus and the larynx, and is primarily responsible for transporting food and air. The esophagus is not part of the pharyngeal anatomy, as it is a tube that runs from the pharynx to the stomach, leading strictly into the digestive tract.

Understanding these anatomical distinctions is crucial for recognizing the pathways of respiration and digestion, as well as their associated structures.