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Food cannot normally enter the trachea during swallowing because of the action of the epiglottis, a flap of cartilage that covers the trachea. When swallowing, the epiglottis folds down to block the airway, directing food into the esophagus instead. This mechanism helps prevent choking and ensures that food and liquids are routed safely to the stomach. Additionally, coordinated muscle contractions in the throat further facilitate this protective process.

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1mo ago

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Related Questions

Why should the trachea be opened all the time?

because of the cartilage rings trachea opened all the time


What closes over the trachea when swallowing?

The epiglottis covers the opening to the trachea when swallowing - thereby preventing food/drink entering the trachea and lungs.


Does the trachea move when you swallow?

Yes, the trachea does move when you swallow. During swallowing, the larynx elevates and the epiglottis covers the trachea to prevent food and liquid from entering the airway. This movement helps ensure that the swallowed material goes down the esophagus instead of the trachea. Additionally, the trachea's position can shift slightly due to the surrounding muscles and structures involved in the swallowing process.


Why would move downward to close the trachea during swallowing?

The epiglottis moves downards to block the trachea during swallowing.


What happens to the shape of trachea when swallowing food?

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.


What covers the trachea during swallowing?

epiglottis


The tissue which diverts food from the trachea upon swallowing is the?

The epiglottis is the tissue that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway.


How does the trachea walls accommodate both breathing and swallowing?

the epiglottis prevent food to the trachea


How does material inadvertently enter the trachea?

Material can inadvertently enter the trachea when there is a misdirection of swallowing, such as during choking episodes. This can happen when food or liquid does not pass correctly through the esophagus and instead enters the trachea during swallowing.


What is the tiny flap that covers the trachea during swallowing?

The epiglottis protects the trachea from food.


During swallowing food is blocked from entering the trachea by the?

epiglottis


How does shape of cartilage of trachea facilitate swallowing?

It is shaped like a tube