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

What structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

1. The uvula

2. The soft palate

3. The pharynx

4. The epiglottis

The correct answer is: The epiglottis

The epiglottis is the correct answer because it serves as a critical protective structure during swallowing. Located at the base of the tongue, the epiglottis is a flap of cartilage that acts like a gate. When you swallow, the muscles in the throat contract, and the epiglottis folds down over the trachea (the windpipe), effectively sealing it off. This action prevents food and liquids from entering the trachea and directs them into the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This process is essential for protecting the airways and ensuring that respiration is not compromised while eating. When the swallowing process is complete, the epiglottis returns to its original position, allowing air to flow freely into the trachea again. Understanding the role of the epiglottis highlights its importance in the act of swallowing and airway protection.