When food is swallowed, the epiglottis:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that covers the entrance to the larynx during swallowing to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway. Therefore, it closes the entrance to the larynx. Choice B is incorrect because the pharynx is where food goes before entering the esophagus, so closing the entrance to the pharynx would prevent food from entering the digestive tract. Choice C is incorrect because opening the entrance to the larynx during swallowing would allow food or liquid to enter the airway, resulting in choking or aspiration. Choice D is also incorrect because the entrance to the pharynx should already be open as food moves through it towards the esophagus.

When Food Is Swallowed, the Epiglottis