The pharynx is the structure in the body that serves as a pathway of both air and food. How does the body make sure that food does not get into the lungs?

When you swallow, the epiglottis—a flap of tissue above the airway—folds down to cover its opening. This directs food into the esophagus instead of the lungs. The choice stating that the epiglottis closes the air pathway is correct; the salivary glands, small intestine, and pancreas do not perform this function.

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