Q20 - Anatomy and physiology of humans

The correct answer is B) Cartilage.

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of elastic cartilage at the entrance of the larynx. When you swallow, the larynx rises and the epiglottis folds over its opening, so food goes into the oesophagus instead of the airway.

A) Incorrect: Vertebrae are the bones of the spine.

B) Correct: The epiglottis is made of elastic cartilage, which makes it flexible.

C) Incorrect: Muscles move the larynx during swallowing, but the epiglottis itself is not a muscle.

D) Incorrect: Nerves supply the larynx, but the epiglottis is not a nerve.

E) Incorrect: It does not secrete anything, so it is not a gland.