Anatomy Practice Exam

What role does the epiglottis play in the respiratory system?

1. It produces sound during speech

2. It seals off the windpipe to prevent food entry

3. It filters air before reaching the lungs

4. It transports air to the alveoli

The correct answer is: It seals off the windpipe to prevent food entry

The epiglottis serves a critical function in the respiratory system by sealing off the windpipe during swallowing. This flap of cartilage is located at the root of the tongue and acts as a gatekeeper for the trachea (windpipe). When you swallow, the epiglottis folds down over the entrance to the trachea, preventing food and liquids from entering the airway. This protective mechanism is essential for preventing choking and ensuring that materials intended for the digestive tract do not enter the respiratory tract, thereby maintaining a clear pathway for airflow into the lungs during breathing. In contrast, the other options pertain to functions that do not accurately describe the role of the epiglottis. While sound production during speech is facilitated by the vocal cords in the larynx, air filtration is primarily performed by structures such as the nasal passages and bronchi, which trap dust and pathogens. The transport of air to the alveoli is accomplished through the trachea and branching bronchi, where oxygen exchange occurs, rather than by any function of the epiglottis itself. Thus, the correct choice highlights the specific and vital role of the epiglottis in protecting the airway during the act of swallowing.