If you're seeing this message, it means we're having trouble loading external resources on our website.

If you're behind a web filter, please make sure that the domains *.kastatic.org and *.kasandbox.org are unblocked.

Main content

The circulatory and respiratory systems

Problem

When you swallow, a characteristic "gulp" sound can be heard. This "gulp" is caused by the epiglottis (a flap of tissue) covering the trachea and guiding food/water down the esophagus during swallowing.
Which of the following best describes how the epiglottis is connected to the respiratory system's function?
Choose 1 answer: