Which structure protects the airway during swallowing?

The epiglottis plays a crucial role in protecting the airway during swallowing. It is a flap-like structure made of elastic cartilage located at the base of the tongue and above the larynx. When you swallow, the epiglottis folds down to cover the entrance to the larynx, directing food and liquids into the esophagus and preventing them from entering the trachea. This mechanism is vital for preventing aspiration, which can lead to choking or respiratory complications.

Other structures mentioned, such as the thyroid cartilage and vocal cords, do not have the same protective function during swallowing. The thyroid cartilage forms part of the larynx and provides structural support but does not actively cover or protect the airway during swallowing. The vocal cords are involved in producing sound and also do not serve as a barrier to protect the airway in this context. The trachea is the airway itself, and while it is a critical passage for air, it does not have a role in the swallowing process. Hence, the epiglottis is specifically designed to fulfill the protective function during swallowing, making it the correct answer.