Multiple choice

During swallowing the nasopharynx is closed off by

  1. soft and hard palate

  2. uvula

  3. hard palate and uvula

  4. uvula and soft palate
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

During swallowing, the soft palate elevates and the uvula moves to close off the nasopharynx, preventing food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity. The hard palate forms the floor of the nasal cavity but does not move during swallowing. This coordinated action ensures food passes only into the oropharynx and then the esophagus.

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