Choanae refers to the internal openings of the nostrils in vertebrates. It is commonly spelled as "choanae" in English, with the symbol /kəʊˈeɪniː/ indicating its phonetic transcription. The "ch" sound is pronounced as /k/ in this word, followed by "o" which sounds like /əʊ/ in British English. The next syllable "a" is pronounced as /eɪ/, while the last syllable "ne" sounds like /niː/. The spelling and pronunciation of Choanae may vary depending on the region and the language used.
Choanae is a term used in anatomy to refer to the paired posterior openings located in the back of the nasal cavity and are connected to the nasopharynx. These openings, also known as the posterior nasal apertures, serve as a communication passage between the nasal cavity and the pharynx. The term "choanae" is derived from the Greek word "choane," which translates to "funnel."
The choanae play a crucial role in the respiratory and olfactory functions of the human body. During respiration, air enters the nasal cavity through the nostrils and travels through the nasal passages before reaching the choanae. From there, the air passes through the posterior nasal apertures and enters the nasopharynx, eventually reaching the lower respiratory tract. Additionally, the choanae are responsible for allowing nasal secretions to drain into the throat, promoting the clearance of mucus and supporting proper respiratory function.
Moreover, the choanae contribute to the sense of smell by facilitating the passage of odorous molecules from the nasal cavity to the olfactory epithelium located in the upper region of the nasal cavity. This allows for the detection and recognition of various scents and flavors.
In summary, choanae are the paired openings situated at the back of the nasal cavity that enable the exchange of air between the nasal passages and the pharynx. They promote proper respiration and play a significant role in the perception of smell.
The word "choanae" is derived from the Ancient Greek term "choane" (χοάνη), which means "funnel". In biology and anatomy, "choanae" refers to the paired internal nostrils or posterior nasal apertures located at the back of the nasal cavity. The term "choane" was used to describe these openings due to their funnel-like shape, through which air passes from the nasal cavity to the pharynx.