<P> The epiglottis is a flap in the throat that keeps food from entering the windpipe and the lungs . The flap is made of elastic cartilage covered with a mucous membrane , attached to the entrance of the larynx . It projects obliquely upwards behind the tongue and the hyoid bone , pointing dorsally . It stands open during breathing , allowing air into the larynx . During swallowing , it closes to prevent aspiration , forcing the swallowed liquids or food to go along the esophagus instead . It is thus the valve that diverts passage to either the trachea or the esophagus . </P>
<P> The epiglottis is a flap in the throat that keeps food from entering the windpipe and the lungs . The flap is made of elastic cartilage covered with a mucous membrane , attached to the entrance of the larynx . It projects obliquely upwards behind the tongue and the hyoid bone , pointing dorsally . It stands open during breathing , allowing air into the larynx . During swallowing , it closes to prevent aspiration , forcing the swallowed liquids or food to go along the esophagus instead . It is thus the valve that diverts passage to either the trachea or the esophagus . </P>
where is the epiglottis located in the human body
where is the epiglottis located in the human body
the throat
the throat