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Multiple Choice
Which of the following cranial nerves transmits gustatory (taste) sensory information?
A
Vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII)
B
Olfactory nerve (CN I)
C
Facial nerve (CN VII)
D
Optic nerve (CN II)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of cranial nerves: Cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information to and from the brain. Some cranial nerves are involved in special senses like taste, smell, vision, and hearing.
Identify the cranial nerves associated with taste: Gustatory (taste) sensory information is transmitted by specific cranial nerves, primarily the Facial nerve (CN VII), Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), and Vagus nerve (CN X). These nerves innervate different parts of the tongue and oral cavity.
Eliminate incorrect options: The Vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) is involved in hearing and balance, not taste. The Olfactory nerve (CN I) is responsible for the sense of smell, and the Optic nerve (CN II) is responsible for vision. None of these transmit gustatory information.
Focus on the Facial nerve (CN VII): The Facial nerve is responsible for transmitting taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue to the brain. This makes it the correct answer for gustatory sensory information in this context.
Confirm the correct answer: Based on the functions of the cranial nerves, the Facial nerve (CN VII) is the correct choice for transmitting gustatory sensory information.