answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer
AnswerThe epiglottis is actually a flap of connective tissue that is made of elastic cartilage at the base of the tongue. It points upward except when solids and liquids pass from the oral cavity into the esophagus. When you swallow, this position is changed so that it covers the opening of the trachea in the throat by folding down over the glottis to prevent food from passing into the lungs through the trachea. So it temporarily blocks off the air passageway as food goes down the esophagus it doesn't go down into the lungs. After you finish swallowing, it then reopens the trachea to allow breathing. Another AnswerDuring swallowing, the larynx rises and the epiglottis, which is composed of cartilage, covers its opening which then directs food and fluid into the esophagus and preventing its entry into the trachea which would then lead to the lungs. Another answerThe epiglottis is a leaf shaped elastic cartilage. It is one of the single cartilages of the larynx and its function is to close the laryngeal inlet during swallowing.

the epiglottis is what i am learning about in school if anyonw knows what this is please tell me yenne 427 here speaking ot typing <3 u thatnjks

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

Wiki User

11y ago

The epiglottis is in your throat. It is a flap of tissue that closes and shuts off your windpipe when you swallow to stop food or drink getting into your respiritory system. If they manage to get past your epiglottis, your gag reflex will take place (very uncomfortable, so make sure to swallow!).

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

It's a "flap" that covers either the trachea or esophagus. It prevents you from choking. When you eat, it covers the trachea so food will go down the esophagus and not the windpipe (trachea). If food gets down your trachea, you will choke.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What is the epiglottis and it's purpose?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions