What is the Difference Between Glottis and Epiglottis?

The glottis and epiglottis are two structures found at the opening of the windpipe in the larynx. They play crucial roles in the production of sound and protecting the airway while swallowing food. The main differences between glottis and epiglottis are their function and structure:

• Glottis:
• Opens into the airway.
• Responsible for the production of sound.
• The size of the glottis is responsible for the voice type.
• While swallowing, the glottis moves upward.
• The glottis is the narrowest part of the larynx, and vocal cords form its lateral borders.
• Epiglottis:
• Forms the superior border of the glottis.
• Prevents food from entering the airway passage of the respiratory system while swallowing.
• The size of the epiglottis is not responsible for the voice type.
• While swallowing, the epiglottis moves downwards.
• The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped cartilaginous flap.

In summary, the glottis is responsible for the production of sound and is involved in the creation of voice, while the epiglottis is a cartilaginous flap that prevents food from entering the airway during swallowing.

Comparative Table: Glottis vs Epiglottis

Here is a table highlighting the differences between the glottis and epiglottis:

The glottis is a narrow part of the larynx that opens into the airway and is responsible for voice production. The size of the glottis determines the type of voice a person has. On the other hand, the epiglottis is a cartilaginous flap-like structure that forms the superior border of the glottis. Its main function is to prevent food from entering the airway passage of the respiratory system while swallowing. During swallowing, the glottis moves upward, while the epiglottis moves downward.