Gastrointestinal Practice Questions Related

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Which of these structures prevents food from entering the windpipe?

  • A. Epiglottis
  • B. Esophageal sphincter
  • C. Pyloric sphincter
  • D. Lower esophageal sphincter
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Epiglottis. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that covers the opening to the trachea (windpipe) during swallowing, preventing food from entering the airway. This action ensures that food goes down the esophagus to the stomach. The other choices (B, C, D) are involved in controlling the flow of food in the digestive system at different points, but they do not specifically prevent food from entering the windpipe like the epiglottis does.