Question

Name the 1) afferent and 2) efferent for the gag reflex.

A. Afferent: Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX); Efferent: Vagus nerve (CN X)
B. Afferent: Vagus nerve (CN X); Efferent: Trigeminal nerve (CN V)
C. Afferent: Hypoglossal nerve (CN XII); Efferent: Facial nerve (CN VII)
D. Afferent: Accessory nerve (CN XI); Efferent: Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)

Answer 1

The afferent nerve for the gag reflex is the Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), and the efferent nerve is the Vagus nerve (CN X). The Glossopharyngeal nerve detects the stimuli, while the Vagus nerve controls the motor response.

Step-by-step explanation:

The afferent and efferent nerves for the gag reflex are the Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) and Vagus nerve (CN X), respectively. The Glossopharyngeal nerve is responsible for relaying general sensations from the pharyngeal walls and certain taste stimuli that can activate the gag reflex. Once stimulated, the afferent signal travels via the Glossopharyngeal nerve to the brain. The efferent limb of the reflex arc is carried out by the Vagus nerve, which mediates the motor response through the contraction of the muscles of the pharynx, contributing to the gag reflex, swallowing, and speech functions.