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because of the cartilage rings trachea opened all the time
The epiglottis covers the opening to the trachea when swallowing - thereby preventing food/drink entering the trachea and lungs.
The epiglottis moves downards to block the trachea during swallowing.
It is important that food not go down the trachea, or expand the esophagus into the trachea or larynx. The epiglottis blocks the trachea when swallowing, and the change in shape makes this more effective.
epiglottis
the epiglottis prevent food to the trachea
The epiglottis protects the trachea from food.
Epiglottis.
epiglottis
The epiglottis prevents the food you eat from entering the trachea.
It is shaped like a tube
If you accidentally inhale something instead of swallowing it