During the oropharyngeal phase of swallowing,how is food prevented from entering the other openings that communicate with the pharynx?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the oropharyngeal phase of swallowing, the larynx is elevated and the vocal folds close across the laryngeal opening, preventing food from entering the respiratory tract. This movement is known as the laryngeal elevator reflex. The uvula and nasopharyngeal sphincter have roles in swallowing, but they do not prevent food from entering other openings. The epiglottis helps to direct food towards the esophagus, but it does not block the opening between the vocal cords.

During the Oropharyngeal Phase of Swallowing,how Is Food Prevented from Entering