Where does the oral cavity join the pharynx?

The oral cavity joins the pharynx at the oropharynx. The oropharynx serves as a passageway for both air and food, positioned directly posterior to the oral cavity and extends from the soft palate to the level of the hyoid bone. This area is essential because it plays a crucial role in the pathway for swallowing, as it connects the digestive tract and respiratory tract.

The other areas listed do not serve as this specific junction. The nasal cavity is situated above the oral cavity and is involved in air passage but does not join with the oral cavity. The laryngopharynx lies further down, acting as a passage for both air and food as well, but it does not directly connect to the oral cavity. The trachea is part of the lower respiratory system and is not part of the pharynx; it carries air to the lungs, separate from the junction of the oral cavity and the pharynx.