Pharyngeal arches are structures that develop in the embryo and play a crucial role in forming the head and neck. Typically, there are six pairs of arches, each contributing to different anatomical features, such as the jaw, ears, and throat. These arches consist of mesoderm and neural crest cells, which differentiate into various tissues and structures. Each pharyngeal arch contains a cartilaginous rod, a muscle component, and a nerve. For example, the first arch gives rise to the mandible and maxilla, while the second arch contributes to the hyoid bone and muscles of facial expression. Understanding these arches is essential for studying embryonic development and related congenital disorders.