Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

Which cranial nerve is responsible for taste sensation for the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

1. Glossopharyngeal nerve

2. Facial nerve

3. Vagus nerve

4. Hypoglossal nerve

The correct answer is: Facial nerve

The facial nerve is responsible for taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. It carries sensory fibers from the taste buds located in this region and transmits taste information to the brain. The facial nerve, also known as cranial nerve VII, has a significant role in gustatory function, which is essential for the perception of sweetness, sourness, and umami flavors that are typically experienced in the anterior part of the tongue. The glossopharyngeal nerve primarily provides taste sensation for the posterior one-third of the tongue, and while it is involved in some swallowing functions, it does not contribute to taste in the anterior region. The vagus nerve, which has broad functions including autonomic control of the heart and digestive tract, does not participate in taste sensation in the tongue. Lastly, the hypoglossal nerve is primarily involved in motor control of the tongue muscles, facilitating movement for speech and swallowing rather than taste sensation.