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

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

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Problem 4

Textbook Question

The function of the epiglottis is to:
a. Contract muscularly to cover the laryngopharynx
b. Vibrate to produce sound
c. Trigger a cough reflex
d. Cover the glottis during swallowing

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by identifying the anatomical location and structure of the epiglottis. The epiglottis is a flap of elastic cartilage located at the entrance of the larynx, above the glottis.

Step 2: Understand the primary function of the epiglottis. Its role is to prevent food and liquid from entering the respiratory tract during swallowing.

Step 3: Analyze the swallowing process. During swallowing, the epiglottis folds down to cover the glottis (the opening to the larynx) to ensure that food and liquid are directed into the esophagus instead of the trachea.

Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options based on the function of the epiglottis. For example, the epiglottis does not contract muscularly, vibrate to produce sound, or trigger a cough reflex. These functions are associated with other structures like the vocal cords or the larynx.

Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is related to the epiglottis covering the glottis during swallowing, as this aligns with its anatomical role in protecting the airway.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Epiglottis Function

The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue. Its primary function is to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea during swallowing. When swallowing occurs, the epiglottis folds down to cover the glottis, ensuring that the airway is protected and directing the food towards the esophagus.

Swallowing Mechanism

Swallowing is a complex process that involves the coordinated action of various muscles and structures in the throat. It consists of three phases: the oral phase, where food is chewed and formed into a bolus; the pharyngeal phase, where the bolus is pushed into the throat; and the esophageal phase, where it moves down the esophagus. The epiglottis plays a crucial role in the pharyngeal phase by sealing off the airway.

Glottis

The glottis is the part of the larynx that contains the vocal cords and the opening between them. It is essential for sound production and plays a role in breathing. During swallowing, the glottis must be covered by the epiglottis to prevent aspiration, which is the entry of food or liquid into the airway, potentially leading to choking or respiratory issues.

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