Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

23. The Digestive System

Introduction to the Digestive System

Anatomy & Physiology

23. The Digestive System

Introduction to the Digestive System

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Multiple Choice

Which structure helps to prevent food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

Soft palate

Esophagus

Uvula

Epiglottis

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomy of the throat: The trachea is the windpipe that leads to the lungs, while the esophagus is the tube that carries food to the stomach. During swallowing, the body must ensure food does not enter the trachea.

Learn the function of the epiglottis: The epiglottis is a flap-like structure made of elastic cartilage located at the entrance of the larynx. Its primary role is to act as a protective barrier during swallowing.

Examine the swallowing process: When swallowing occurs, the epiglottis folds down to cover the opening of the trachea (the glottis). This action prevents food or liquid from entering the airway and directs it into the esophagus.

Differentiate the roles of other structures: The soft palate and uvula help close off the nasal cavity during swallowing, but they do not prevent food from entering the trachea. The esophagus is the tube that food travels down after being directed away from the trachea by the epiglottis.

Conclude that the epiglottis is the correct structure: Based on its anatomical location and function, the epiglottis is the structure responsible for preventing food from entering the trachea during swallowing.