"epiglottis - large , leaf-shaped piece of cartilage lying on top of larynx; during swallowing the larynx elevates, causing the epiglottis to fall on the glottis (opening into larynx) like a lid, closing it off - this prevents food from entering the windpipe (trachea)."
True, the epiglottis is a structure that opens or closes the trachea. you also have no control over it which is why you sometimes choke on food and water
