Which structure connects to several muscles associated with the tongue and larynx?

The styloid process is a slender, pointed piece of bone located just below the ear. It serves as an important attachment point for several muscles and ligaments, specifically those associated with the tongue and larynx. The styloid process is critical for the function of structures that are involved in speech and swallowing because these muscles need stable points of attachment in order to allow for precise movements.

The muscles connected to the styloid process include the styloglossus, which assists in tongue movement, and the stylopharyngeus, which plays a role in elevating the pharynx during swallowing. This anatomical connection is essential for the coordinated actions required in both communication and the act of swallowing.

In contrast, the other structures mentioned—helix, antihelix, and mastoid—serve different functions and do not provide the same type of muscular attachment related to the tongue and larynx. The helix and antihelix are parts of the outer ear, primarily involved in sound direction and collection, while the mastoid process is a bony prominence behind the ear that serves as an attachment point for neck muscles. Hence, the styloid process is indeed the structure that connects to several muscles associated with the tongue and larynx.