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The epiglottis guards the entrance of the glottis, the opening between the vocal folds. It is normally pointed upward while one is breathing with its underside functioning as part of the pharynx, but while one is swallowing, elevation of the hyoid bone draws the larynx upward; as a result, the epiglottis folds down to a more horizontal position, with its superior side functioning as part of the pharynx.
In this manner it prevents food from going into the trachea and instead directs it to the esophagus, which is posterior.
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∙ 12y ago
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What structure closes off the entrance to the larynx and trachea which prevents food or liquid from entering the respiratory system?
When swallowing, the epiglottis closes off the trachea to direct food down the esophagus.
What are the Glottis and Epiglottis in the respiratory system?
The glottis opens into the windpipe and is responsible for the production of sound. While the epiglottis is a cartilaginous flap on top of the glottis that prevents the food from entering the larynx. The main difference between glottis and epiglottis is their function and structure.
What structure closes over the trachea to protect it during swallowing?
The epiglottis.
What is the epiglottis attached to which structure?
larynx
What structure covers the epiglottis?
During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the glottic opening to prevent aspiration of food or fluids into the lungs.
What affects the epiglottis?
Stroke, seizures, alcohol, and various drugs interfere with the function of the epiglottis
What entrance to the larynx is guarded by what structure?
epiglottis
What of the function of the epiglottis?
The function of the epiglottis is to close when eat stopping the food to go to your lungs
What structure keeps air from entering your stomach?
the epiglottis
Which structure prevents food from entering the air?
The epiglottis.
What are three animals that have the epiglottis?
Generally only mammals have an epiglottis. Therefore dogs, humans, cats, cows (etc) can all be mentioned as examples.Reptiles have an analogous structure, which serves the same function but does not have cartilage in it. See he related link below for more information.
What is the leaf like structure which prevents the entry of food into the respiratory passages?
The epiglottis is the structure that prevents the entry of food into the respiratory system. It is made of connective tissue.
