What structure connects the throat to the lungs?

The trachea, often referred to as the windpipe, is the structure that connects the throat (pharynx and larynx) to the lungs. It serves as a crucial passageway for air to travel from the upper respiratory tract to the lower respiratory tract, leading directly into the bronchi, which branch into the lungs. The trachea is lined with cilia and mucus that help trap and expel foreign particles, ensuring that the air reaching the lungs is clean and suitable for gas exchange.

Understanding its function is important; as air enters through the nose or mouth, it passes through the pharynx and larynx, travels down the trachea, and then enters the lungs through the bronchial tree. This anatomy is vital for effective respiration, as proper airflow is essential for oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal from the body.