Multiple Choice
Which statement is true of both poliomyelitis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Introduction to Biology
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Which function of the tongue helps an individual avoid ingesting harmful substances?
A
Assisting in the mechanical breakdown of food
B
Detecting bitter tastes, which are often associated with toxins
C
Producing saliva to aid in swallowing
D
Facilitating speech by shaping sounds
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of the tongue in sensory perception: The tongue contains taste buds that are specialized sensory organs responsible for detecting different tastes, including sweet, salty, sour, umami, and bitter.
Recognize the biological significance of bitter taste detection: Bitter tastes are often associated with harmful or toxic substances in nature. This ability helps organisms avoid ingesting potentially dangerous compounds.
Identify the specific function of the tongue related to avoiding harmful substances: The detection of bitter tastes by taste buds is a protective mechanism that alerts the individual to the presence of toxins.
Differentiate this function from other roles of the tongue: While the tongue assists in mechanical food breakdown, saliva production, and speech, these functions are not directly related to avoiding harmful substances.
Conclude that the primary function of the tongue in this context is detecting bitter tastes, which serves as a defense mechanism against ingesting toxins.
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