Question

Why can a person not swallow food and talk at the same time?

• A. The brain cannot control two activities at the same time.
• B. In order to speak, air must come through the pharynx to form sounds.
• C. In order to swallow, the epiglottis must close off the larynx (trachea).
• D. Both B and C are correct.

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Both B and C are correct.

• When there is air in the pharynx, the vocal cords are vibrated and sounds are produced which allows the person to speak.
• When the person is eating or swallowing, the glottis is closed so that the food does not enter the tracheal tube. Hence, a person cannot swallow food and talk at the same time.
  
• So, the correct answer is 'Both B and C are correct.".