Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for taste sensation in the anterior 2/3 of the tongue
Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for taste sensation in the anterior 2/3 of the tongue?
A. Facial nerve (CN VII)
B. Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)
C. Vagus nerve (CN X)
D. Trigeminal nerve (CN V)
Answer: A
Explanation: The facial nerve (CN VII) carries taste fibers from the anterior 2/3 of the tongue via the chorda tympani branch. The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) innervates the posterior 1/3 of the tongue for taste (B is incorrect). The vagus nerve (CN X) innervates taste buds in the epiglottis (C is incorrect). The trigeminal nerve (CN V) carries general sensation (e.g., touch, pain) from the tongue, not taste (D is incorrect).
