Which Flap of Tissue Prevents Food and Water from Entering

Question

Which flap of tissue prevents food and water from entering the respiratory passages?
A) Appendix
B) Uvula
C) Palatine tonsils
D) Epiglottis

Accepted Answer

The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that prevents food and water from entering the respiratory passages by closing over the larynx during swallowing. The appendix is a small, finger-like projection from the colon; the uvula is a fleshy, teardrop-shaped tissue that hangs down from the soft palate; and the palatine tonsils are clusters of lymphoid tissue located on either side of the back of the throat. None of these structures play a role in preventing food and water from entering the respiratory passages.