A Structure That Helps Prevent Food from Entering the Pharynx

Question

A structure that helps prevent food from entering the pharynx prematurely is the
A) uvula.
B) pharyngeal arch.
C) palatoglossal arch.
D) palatopharyngeal arch.
E) epiglottis.

Accepted Answer

The uvula helps prevent food from entering the pharynx prematurely by triggering the gag reflex and assisting in the closing of the nasopharynx during swallowing.