What is the purpose of the epiglottis?

Answer by  Audrey86 (261)

Actually, like the appendix, there is no accepted answer for what kind of purpose the epiglottis serves. From what anybody can tell, it doesn't have any known function at all! It could be vestigial leftover from evolution (that's the most popular theory for the appendix, at least), or it could just be there to look silly. ;)

Answer by  sanderson (39)

The epiglottis is the small flap of skin that closes off the trachia, which leads to your lungs, when you eat or drink to prevent food or liquid from going into your lungs.

Answer by  isybel (31)

The epiglottis is a small flap in your throat that opens or closes the entrance to the respiratory tract. This is what keeps food from getting into the lungs. This is extremely important because the human voice box is located higher than many animals--making us otherwise very prone to chocking.