Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the epiglottis?

1. To regulate breathing

2. To prevent food from going down the trachea

3. To assist in vocalization

4. To filter incoming air

The correct answer is: To prevent food from going down the trachea

The primary function of the epiglottis is to prevent food and liquids from entering the trachea during swallowing. This is crucial for protecting the airway and ensuring that food goes down the esophagus and not into the lungs. The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue that acts as a gate, closing off the trachea when swallowing occurs. This function is essential for preventing choking and aspiration, which can lead to serious respiratory issues. In contrast, while the regulation of breathing involves other structures and processes in the respiratory system, the primary role of the epiglottis is specifically tied to swallowing and airway protection. Assisting in vocalization is mainly the function of the larynx, which contains the vocal cords, and filtering incoming air is primarily performed by the nasal passages and other components of the respiratory system, rather than the epiglottis.