Which structure prevents food from entering the windpipe?

The structure that prevents food from entering the windpipe is the epiglottis. The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue. Its primary function is to act as a gatekeeper during swallowing. When you swallow, the epiglottis folds down over the trachea (windpipe), directing food and liquids into the esophagus and away from the airway. This mechanism is crucial in preventing choking and ensuring that air and food are routed appropriately.

The vocal cords, larynx, and pharynx have different roles in the respiratory and digestive systems. The vocal cords are involved in sound production and are situated in the larynx, which also plays a role in protecting the trachea by acting as a passage for air while preventing foreign objects from entering the airway. The pharynx serves as a pathway for both food and air, but it is not specifically responsible for preventing food from entering the windpipe. The epiglottis is therefore the most essential structure for this protective function during the swallowing process.