What are the pharynx and epiglottis primarily associated with?

The pharynx and epiglottis are primarily associated with the respiratory system because they play crucial roles in the process of breathing and air passage. The pharynx serves as a common pathway for both air and food, directing air towards the larynx and subsequently to the lungs while preventing food from entering the airway. The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue that acts as a protective cover over the trachea during swallowing, ensuring that food and liquids do not enter the respiratory tract. This coordination is essential to maintain an unobstructed air passage for effective respiration, which underscores the pharynx and epiglottis's key function within the respiratory system.