During swallowing, the opening into the larynx is covered by the ________.

A) epiglottis
B) thyroid cartilage
C) cricoid cartilage
D) arytenoid cartilage
E) the "Adam's apple"

Epiglottis

A leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located behind the tongue at the top of the larynx; its function is to seal off the windpipe during eating, to prevent food from entering the airway.

Larynx

A structure in the throat containing the vocal cords; it is involved in breathing, producing sound, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration.