Multiple choice

The structure which prevents the entry of food into the wind pipe is:

  1. larynx

  2. glottis

  3. epiglottis

  4. tonsils

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped cartilage flap that covers the trachea (windpipe) during swallowing, preventing food or liquids from entering the respiratory tract. The larynx contains the vocal cords, the glottis is the opening between them, and tonsils are lymphatic tissue - none of these prevent food entry.