What hollow muscular organ forms the airway to the lungs and houses the vocal cords?

• A. Larynx
• B. Trachea
• C. Esophagus
• D. Epiglottis

Answer: (A)

The larynx. It sits in the neck between the pharynx and trachea and contains the vocal cords (vocal folds) within its cavity, making it the hollow muscular organ that forms the airway to the lungs and houses the vocal cords. Air passes through the larynx on its way to the lower airways, and the larynx also plays a key role in voice production. The trachea conducts air further down but does not house the vocal cords. The esophagus lies behind the trachea and carries food. The epiglottis is a flap that helps protect the airway during swallowing but does not house the vocal cords.