What structure prevents food from entering the trachea?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the anatomical structure in the human body that blocks food from entering the trachea during swallowing, which is important for preventing choking and ensuring that food goes down the esophagus instead.
Answer
The epiglottis
The final answer is the epiglottis
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is the epiglottis
More Information
The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue. During swallowing, it folds back to cover the entrance of the larynx, directing food and liquid into the esophagus instead of the trachea.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the epiglottis with other anatomical structures in the throat such as the larynx or pharynx. Remember that the epiglottis specifically acts as a flap that covers the larynx during swallowing.
Sources
- What Is the Epiglottis? Function & Anatomy - Cleveland Clinic - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Epiglottis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Image - medlineplus.gov
- SEER Training - Pharynx & Esophagus - training.seer.cancer.gov
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