Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

The vocal cords are located in which part of the respiratory system?

1. Pharynx

2. Trachea

3. Larynx

4. Bronchus

The correct answer is: Larynx

The vocal cords, also known as vocal folds, are located in the larynx, which is a crucial structure within the respiratory system responsible for producing sound. The larynx is situated between the pharynx and the trachea and plays an essential role in voice modulation as it houses the vocal cords. When air passes through the larynx during exhalation, it causes the vocal cords to vibrate, producing sound. The tension and position of the vocal cords can be adjusted by various muscles in the larynx, allowing for pitch variations and control over volume. This function is vital not only for speech but also for protecting the airway during swallowing. While the pharynx serves as a passageway for food and air, and the trachea is the tube that carries air to the lungs, they do not contain the vocal cords. The bronchus, which branches off from the trachea, directs air into the lungs but is also not involved in sound production. Thus, the larynx is the correct answer, as it is the specific anatomical site where the vocal cords are found.