Question

Which of the following is the cartilaginous flap that protects the larynx from water or food while still allowing the flow of air?

A) epiglottis

B) bronchioles

C) epithelium

D) tongue

Answer 1

The epiglottis is the cartilaginous flap that protects the larynx from water or food during swallowing, allowing air to flow through the trachea.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cartilaginous flap that protects the larynx while still allowing the flow of air is known as the epiglottis. This structure plays a critical role in preventing food and water from entering the trachea during swallowing. The epiglottis is attached to the thyroid cartilage and is a very flexible piece of elastic cartilage that functions effectively to close the opening to the trachea whenever food is ingested. During swallowing, other protective actions take place: the pharynx expands, and the larynx is lifted upwards, which facilitates the downward swing of the epiglottis to cover the glottis, successfully blocking the respiratory passage.

When the epiglottis is in its 'closed' position, it provides a barrier over the glottis, which consists of the vestibular folds (false vocal cords), the true vocal cords, and the space between these folds. The act of swallowing triggers a sequence of events where the backward motion of the tongue and the lifting of the larynx cause the epiglottis to close over the laryngeal inlet, ensuring that the swallowed materials are directed into the esophagus, instead of the respiratory system. If, by accident, food does enter the larynx, it stimulates a cough reflex to expel the material.

Answer 2

A) Epiglottis is the cartilaginous flap that protects the larynx from water or food while still allowing the flow of air.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cartilaginous flap that protects the larynx from water or food while still allowing the flow of air is called the epiglottis. The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped structure located at the base of the tongue, and it plays a crucial role in preventing food or liquid from entering the windpipe (trachea) and lungs during swallowing. When we swallow, the epiglottis covers the glottis, the opening to the trachea, like a lid, ensuring that food and liquids go down the esophagus and into the stomach while maintaining an unobstructed pathway for air to reach the lungs.

In summary, the correct answer is option A, the epiglottis, which is specifically adapted to protect the respiratory system during the process of swallowing.

Option A is the answer.