Final answer:
The cricothyroid ligament is the band of dense connective tissue situated between the cricoid cartilage and the thyroid cartilage of the larynx, and it can be palpated.
Step-by-step explanation:
The band of dense connective tissue that lies between the cricoid cartilage and the thyroid cartilage of the larynx, and can be palpated, is known as the cricothyroid ligament. This ligament is a part of the larynx, a cartilaginous structure that plays a crucial role in voice production and air passage regulation.
The larynx is comprised of several pieces of cartilage, with the thyroid cartilage forming the anterior wall and featuring the laryngeal prominence or "Adam's apple," particularly pronounced in males. The cricoid cartilage forms a complete ring below the thyroid cartilage with a wider posterior region and a thinner anterior region. The cricothyroid ligament connects these two cartilages and is involved in the tension adjustment of the vocal cords that influences pitch during speech.