How do rings of cartilage present in trachea protect from collapsing?

1.	How do rings of cartilage present in trachea protect from collapsing?
Answer» The cartilaginous rings are incomplete to allow the trachea to collapse slightly so that food can pass down the esophagus. A flap-like epiglottis closes the opening to the larynx during swallowing to prevent swallowed matter from entering the trachea.

Discussion