North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The structures located at the bottom of the pharynx include the trachea and esophagus, which serve crucial roles in the respiratory and digestive systems, respectively. The pharynx acts as a muscular tube that connects the nasal and oral cavities to the larynx and esophagus. At the lower end, it bifurcates into the larynx, which leads to the trachea for air passage, and the esophagus, which is responsible for transporting food to the stomach.

The trachea is the air passage that carries air to the lungs, while the esophagus is a conduit for food and liquids to reach the stomach. This anatomical arrangement is vital for maintaining proper airflow and ensuring that food does not enter the airway, highlighting the importance of this junction in both respiration and digestion. Understanding this structure is fundamental for EMTs, as it plays a significant role in assessing and managing airway and swallowing issues in patients.