Which structure covers the entrance to the trachea during swallowing?

• A. Uvula
• B. Soft palate
• C. Epiglottis
• D. Tongue

Answer: (C)

During swallowing the airway is protected by the epiglottis. This leaf-shaped cartilage at the top of the larynx bends downward as you swallow, covering the entrance to the trachea so food and liquid are directed into the esophagus instead of entering the airway. The uvula and soft palate mainly close off the nasal passages to prevent nasal regurgitation, not the trachea. The tongue helps move the bolus toward the pharynx but does not seal the airway. So the epiglottis is the structure that covers the entrance to the trachea during swallowing.