Final answer:
The space formed by the base of the tongue and the anterior side of the epiglottis is near the glottis, involved in swallowing, and connected to the function of the epiglottis, vestibular folds, and lingual tonsils in protecting the airway and immune response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The space created by the base of the tongue and the anterior side of the epiglottis is involved in the swallowing process and is found near the glottis and the vestibular folds (false vocal cords). The epiglottis, which is a flexible piece of cartilage attached to the thyroid cartilage, covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. When the epiglottis is in the closed position, it rests on the glottis, which is composed of the vestibular folds, the true vocal cords, and the space between these folds. The palatoglossal arch is found next to the base of the tongue and is important for preventing food from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing. This region is also near the lingual tonsils, which are part of the immune system and located at the base of the tongue.