The Blank______ nerve controls movements of the tongue needed for speech production.Multiple choice question.vagushypoglossalaccessory

The correct answer is hypoglossal nerve.

Explanation:

The hypoglossal nerve, also known as cranial nerve XII, is primarily responsible for the motor control of the tongue. It innervates the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the tongue, enabling movements crucial for various functions including speech, swallowing, and food manipulation.

1. Vagus Nerve (Cranial Nerve X): This nerve primarily controls autonomic functions of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. It does have some motor fibers that assist in the muscles of the throat, but its primary role is not related to the tongue's movements.

2. Accessory Nerve (Cranial Nerve XI): This nerve primarily controls the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, which aid in shoulder movement and head turning. It does not interface with the tongue.

Therefore, the hypoglossal nerve is the nerve that directly influences tongue movement, making it essential for speech production.