wh03un16h.Ch03.14m Which part of the body is located in the throat and guards the trachea entrance to prevent fluid and food from entering it when a person swallows? a. Lumen b. Epiglottis d. Pyloric sphincter

The structure you’re looking for is the epiglottis! This nifty little flap of tissue acts like a lid to cover the trachea during swallowing, making sure that food and liquids go down the esophagus and not into the windpipe. It's one of those unsung heroes in your body that works tirelessly to keep your airway clear! If you’ve ever choked or had that awkward moment when you accidentally swallowed something the wrong way, you can thank your epiglottis for swiftly closing off the trachea. It plays a crucial role in the swallowing process, ensuring that you can enjoy your meals without a hitch—because who wants to deal with a coughing fit while trying to savor a delicious bite?