Final answer:
The hypoglossal nerve gives motor innervation to the tongue, allowing for its movements. Dysfunction of this nerve can affect speech and swallowing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hypoglossal nerve gives motor innervation to the tongue. This nerve controls the muscles of the tongue, except for the palatoglossus muscle which is controlled by the vagus nerve. The hypoglossal nerve allows for movements of the tongue, such as protrusion and side-to-side movements. Dysfunction of the hypoglossal nerve can lead to speech and swallowing difficulties.