How are swallowing and breathing systems inter-related?

pharnyx is a common passageway for food and air. it is connected to the nasal passages by 2 internal nares and also connected to the oral cavity. the larnyx connects the pharnyx to the trachea (commonly known as the windpipe). pharnyx also connects the mouth to the esophagus. the glottis is the opening of the trachea, it is covered by the epiglottis which serves to separate the esophagus from the trachea.