Which of the following structures close the glottis during swallowing to prevent the entry of food wind pipe

Options

A. Tongue
B. Epiglottis
C. Diaphragm
D. Larynx

Explanation

To answer the question regarding which structure closes the glottis during swallowing to prevent the entry of food into the windpipe, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Glottis**: The glottis is the opening between the vocal folds located in the larynx. It serves as a primary valve between the lungs and the mouth.

2. **Function of the Glottis**: The glottis plays a crucial role in sound production and is also involved in the process of swallowing.

3. **Identify the Structure that Closes the Glottis**: During swallowing, it is essential to prevent food from entering the windpipe (trachea). The structure responsible for this action is the epiglottis.

4. **Description of the Epiglottis**: The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage situated behind the tongue and at the top of the larynx. Its primary function is to seal off the windpipe during eating.

5. **Mechanism of Action**: When food is swallowed, the epiglottis folds down to cover the glottis, thus preventing food from entering the trachea and directing it towards the esophagus.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the structure that closes the glottis during swallowing to prevent the entry of food into the windpipe is the **epiglottis**.

### Final Answer:
The structure that closes the glottis during swallowing to prevent the entry of food into the windpipe is the **epiglottis**.

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