Question

Glottis is a passage for (a) Food (b) air (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these

Short answer

(c) Both (a) and (b)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Glottis

First, it is important to understand what a Glottis is. The Glottis is a part of the larynx, which is the voice box, and it is responsible for the passage of air into the windpipe or trachea. The Glottis is covered by the epiglottis while swallowing, preventing food or liquid from entering the trachea.

Analyzing the Options

By this basic understanding, the Glottis is mostly involved with the passage of air, but because of the function of the epiglottis, it also indirectly relates to the passage of food by preventing it from entering the trachea. So we now have to look at the given options and choose the one that best fits our conclusion.

Choosing the Correct Answer

From our analysis, we can conclude that while the Glottis is primarily for air passage, it is also involved when swallowing food or liquid. So, even though it does not directly pass food, it plays a critical role. Therefore, the most accurate selection would be (c) Both (a) and (b).

Key concepts

Larynx

The larynx is often referred to as the voice box and plays a crucial role in our respiratory and vocal systems. It is located in the neck, right above the trachea, and houses the vocal cords. The primary functions of the larynx include:

• Air passage: Providing a path for air between the pharynx and trachea.
• Sound production: The vocal cords vibrate to create sound as air passes through them.
• Preventing food entry: By closing its epiglottis during swallowing, the larynx helps prevent food or liquids from entering the airways.

As part of the respiratory system, it ensures that the air reaches the lungs while protecting the airway from food particles.

Epiglottis

The epiglottis is a small but essential flap-like structure made of elastic cartilage. It is positioned at the entrance of the larynx and serves a pivotal purpose in swallowing. When we eat or drink:

• The epiglottis acts as a lid or cover over the glottis, preventing food and liquids from entering the trachea.
• During this process, the epiglottis folds down, ensuring that the swallowed material is directed towards the esophagus and not the trachea.
• Once swallowing is complete, it returns to its resting position, allowing air to flow freely through the larynx into the trachea.

Without the proper functioning of the epiglottis, the risk of choking and respiratory issues would significantly increase.

Air Passage

The passage of air is a fundamental process in human respiration. Starting from the nose or mouth, air travels through:

• The pharynx, a shared pathway for both food and air.
• The larynx, which serves solely as a passage for air and sound production.
• The trachea, often called the windpipe, which conducts air to the lungs.

Ensuring that air reaches the lungs without obstruction is vital for efficient gas exchange. The glottis plays a part in this by opening to allow air through the larynx during breathing.

Trachea

The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tube that connects the larynx to the lungs. It is crucial for the safe passage of air to the respiratory system. Key features include:

• Anatomy: About 10 to 12 centimeters in length, it is made of rings of cartilage that keep it open and prevent collapse.
• Function: It ensures that inhaled air reaches the bronchial tubes and eventually the lungs.
• Health: Any blockage or constriction in the trachea can lead to serious breathing difficulties.

The trachea not only transports air but also filters and humidifies it before it arrives in the lungs, making it essential for respiratory health.

Food Prevention

Food prevention in the context of the larynx involves a well-coordinated effort to direct food and liquids away from the airways. Several structures ensure this happens safely:

• The epiglottis: Acts as a guardian of the airway, closing over the glottis when swallowing.
• The glottis: Remains closed or covered during swallowing to keep food from the trachea.
• The esophagus: Accepts the food and directs it down to the stomach, away from the respiratory tract.

These processes are critical to prevent aspiration, which can cause choking or respiratory infections. Proper function is vital to ensure our safety during eating and drinking.