Final answer:
The face is innervated by cranial nerves, particularly the facial nerve, which is responsible for various functions including facial expressions and taste. Cranial nerves are part of the somatic nervous system and are housed within the cranial cavity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The face is innervated by cranial nerves, which are a part of the somatic nervous system. These nerves are responsible for both sensory and motor functions. The cranial cavity houses a component of the central nervous system which includes these nerves. Specifically, the facial nerve, also known as Cranial Nerve VII (CN VII), contains preganglionic parasympathetic fibers and plays a key role in controlling facial expressions, mastication, swallowing, speech, taste, and salivation in the anterior oral cavity.