What structure prevents food from entering the airway during swallowing?

• A. Epiglottis
• B. Esophagus
• C. Trachea
• D. Bronchus

Answer: (A)

During swallowing, the body protects the airway with the epiglottis. This leaf-shaped cartilage closes over the opening of the larynx (the glottis) as the larynx rises, temporarily sealing the airway so that the swallowed material is guided into the esophagus behind it. The esophagus is the muscular tube that carries food to the stomach, not the protective flap. The trachea and bronchi are airways and do not close off the airway during swallowing. So the epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the airway.