Swallowing Reflex

This image illustrates the deglutition, or swallowing, reflex, as seen in three steps. First, a bolus is formed as the tongue is elevated against the palate. Second, the bolus passes through the oropharynx as the nasopharynx is sealed by the elevated soft palate and uvula. Lastly, the bolus enters the esophagus as the glottis is sealed against the epiglottis.

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