Glottis vs. Epiglottis: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Glottis is the opening between the vocal cords in the larynx; Epiglottis is a flap of tissue above the glottis that prevents food from entering the windpipe.
Key Differences
Glottis refers to the space between the vocal cords, essential for voice production. Epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located at the entrance of the larynx, acting as a switch between the trachea and the esophagus.
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Nov 15, 2023
When speaking or breathing, the glottis opens to allow air passage. In contrast, the epiglottis closes during swallowing to prevent food or liquid from entering the respiratory tract.
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Nov 15, 2023
The glottis plays a critical role in regulating the pitch and tone of sound. The epiglottis, on the other hand, functions primarily as a protective mechanism for the airways.
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Nov 15, 2023
While the glottis is involved in respiratory functions like airflow control, the epiglottis is more involved in digestive functions, ensuring food goes into the esophagus.
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The size and shape of the glottis can change, affecting voice modulation. The epiglottis remains relatively constant in shape but moves up and down during swallowing.
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Nov 15, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Voice production, air passage
Preventing food entry into windpipe
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Movement
Changes shape for sound modulation
Moves up and down during swallowing
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Glottis and Epiglottis Definitions
Glottis
The opening between the vocal cords.
The singer's control over the glottis affected the pitch of her voice.
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Nov 15, 2023
Epiglottis
A flap of tissue that covers the windpipe during swallowing.
The epiglottis prevents choking by covering the airway when eating.
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Nov 15, 2023
Glottis
Part of the larynx involved in sound production.
The glottis adjusts its size to modulate different sounds.
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Nov 15, 2023
Epiglottis
Part of the throat serving as a switch between the trachea and esophagus.
The epiglottis ensures food enters the digestive tract, not the lungs.
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Nov 15, 2023
Glottis
Essential in phonation and airflow regulation.
Disorders of the glottis can lead to voice problems.
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Epiglottis
A protective mechanism in the upper airway.
The epiglottis is key in preventing respiratory infections caused by food particles.
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Glottis
A variable gap affecting voice tone and pitch.
Vocal training often includes exercises to control the glottis.
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Nov 15, 2023
Epiglottis
Essential for safe swallowing and respiratory protection.
The epiglottis works reflexively during eating.
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Nov 15, 2023
Glottis
The space through which air passes in the larynx.
The glottis opens wider during deep breathing.
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Nov 15, 2023
Epiglottis
Prevents aspiration of food into the respiratory tract.
Dysfunction of the epiglottis can lead to food inhalation.
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Nov 15, 2023
Glottis
The opening between the vocal cords at the upper part of the larynx.
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Oct 19, 2023
Epiglottis
The thin elastic cartilaginous structure located at the root of the tongue that folds over the glottis to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea during the act of swallowing.
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Epiglottis
(anatomy) A cartilaginous organ in the throat of terrestrial vertebrates covering the glottis when swallowing to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea, and in Homo sapiens also a speech organ.
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Oct 19, 2023
Glottis
(anatomy) The opening between the true vocal cords which is located in the larynx and affects voice modulation through expansion or contraction.
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Oct 19, 2023
Epiglottis
A cartilaginous lidlike appendage which closes the glottis while food or drink is passing while food or drink is passing through the pharynx.
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Oct 19, 2023
Glottis
The opening from the pharynx into the larynx or into the trachea. See Larynx.
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Oct 19, 2023
Glottis
The vocal apparatus of the larynx; the true vocal folds and the space between them where the voice tone is generated
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is the epiglottis?
A flap of tissue that covers the windpipe during swallowing.
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Nov 15, 2023
How does the glottis affect speech?
It modulates voice pitch and tone by adjusting size.
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Nov 15, 2023
What is the primary function of the epiglottis?
To prevent food from entering the respiratory tract.
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What happens if the glottis is damaged?
It can affect voice production and breathing.
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Does the epiglottis have sensory nerves?
Yes, for triggering the swallowing reflex.
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Can the epiglottis be repaired if damaged?
Depending on the damage, surgical interventions might help.
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Nov 15, 2023
What disorders affect the epiglottis?
Conditions like epiglottitis, inflammation of the epiglottis.
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Is the glottis involved in breathing?
Yes, it opens for air passage during breathing.
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Can vocal training affect the glottis?
Yes, it can improve control over the glottis.
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Does age affect the functioning of the glottis?
Age can affect its elasticity and function.
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Can allergies affect the epiglottis?
Yes, causing swelling and dysfunction.
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How does the epiglottis move during swallowing?
It folds down to cover the trachea.
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What are common problems with the epiglottis in children?
Epiglottitis and foreign body ingestion.
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Nov 15, 2023
Is the epiglottis always active?
It's active during swallowing and reflex actions.
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Can epiglottis dysfunction be life-threatening?
Yes, if it leads to airway obstruction.
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How do health professionals examine the glottis?
Through laryngoscopy or imaging techniques.
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What role does the glottis play in coughing?
It helps expel air forcefully from the lungs.
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Nov 15, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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