The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach. It has upper and lower sphincters, known as the upper esophageal sphincter and the lower esophageal sphincter (or cardiac sphincter), which help regulate the passage of food. It is not cartilaginous, does not extend from the nasal cavity, and lies posterior to the trachea.

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The Esophagus

Question 18

Multiple Choice

The esophagus

A) is a cartilaginous tube.
B) extends from the nasal cavity to the stomach.
C) lies anterior to the trachea.
D) has upper and lower sphincters.
E) has all of these properties.

Correct Answer: