Question

the epiglottis shunts food into the:
a trachea.
b larynx.
c esophagus.
d pharynx.

Explanation:

The epiglottis is a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue. Its main function is to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea (windpipe) during swallowing. When we swallow, the epiglottis closes over the trachea, directing food and liquid into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach.

• Option A: The trachea is the windpipe for air, not for food. The epiglottis prevents food from entering here.
• Option B: The larynx is part of the airway. The epiglottis covers it during swallowing to stop food entry.
• Option C: The esophagus is the correct pathway as the epiglottis directs food here.
• Option D: The pharynx is a common passage for air and food. But the epiglottis specifically shunts food from the pharynx into the esophagus (not just leaving it in the pharynx).

Answer:

C. esophagus.