Determine whether the following sentence is true or false. The pharynx is used for both respiration and digestion.

The statement "The pharynx is used for both respiration and digestion" is true.

Explanation

The pharynx is a muscular tube that serves both respiratory and digestive systems. It is located behind the nasal cavity and extends down to the esophagus. The pharynx has three main parts: the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.

1. Respiration: In terms of respiration, the pharynx acts as a passageway for air from the nasal cavity to the larynx and lungs. It plays a critical role in breathing, as it connects the nasal and oral cavities to the trachea.

2. Digestion: Regarding digestion, the pharynx functions as a passage for food from the mouth to the esophagus. During swallowing, the pharynx helps push the food down toward the esophagus while simultaneously preventing food from entering the trachea and blocking the airway.

Thus, the pharynx is indeed integral to both respiratory and digestive processes, confirming the truth of the statement.