What structure divides the nasal cavity into two halves?

The nasal septum is the structure that divides the nasal cavity into two halves. It is a vertical partition composed of bone and cartilage, providing support and structure to the nose. The septum runs from the front of the nasal cavity, where it meets the cartilage of the nose, all the way to the back, where it connects to the nasal bones and the ethmoid bone. Proper development of the nasal septum is crucial for normal air flow and function, and deviations can lead to issues such as difficulty breathing or chronic sinusitis.

In contrast, the hard palate and soft palate do not divide the nasal cavity; rather, they separate the nasal cavity from the oral cavity. The hard palate forms the bony roof of the mouth, while the soft palate is the muscular back portion. The inferior concha, also known as the inferior nasal concha, is a separate bone located within the nasal cavity itself but serves to increase surface area for warming and humidifying air, not for dividing the cavity.