Where is the carina located?

• A. At the larynx
• B. At the base of the tongue
• C. At the bifurcation of the trachea
• D. In the right main bronchus apex

Answer: (C)

The carina is the cartilaginous ridge at the point where the trachea divides into the right and left main bronchi. This bifurcation happens roughly at the level of the sternal angle (around T4–T5 in adults). Because it sits at the split, it’s the landmark where airways branch into each lung rather than staying in the larynx or in the upper part of the airway. It’s also not located in the base of the tongue or inside a main bronchus up high—the carina sits at the division itself, not within a single bronchus. The carina’s position is clinically important because it’s highly sensitive and triggers the coughing reflex when irritated, and it guides proper placement of airway devices during procedures.