Final answer:
In the context of the anterior 2/3rd of the tongue, the mandibular division manages speech production, while the facial and glossopharyngeal nerves are responsible for the sense of taste and saliva production. The correct option is D) Speech production
Step-by-step explanation:
Innervation to the anterior 2/3rd of the tongue by the mandibular division is responsible for speech production. However, when considering sensory functions such as taste, the facial nerve (CN VII) and glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) are responsible for gustatory sensations in the anterior oral cavity.
The facial nerve controls the anterior two-thirds, while the glossopharyngeal nerve manages the posterior one-third. Furthermore, taste buds stimulated by food or other stimuli can trigger the salivatory nuclei in the brain stem, leading to the production of saliva through the glossopharyngeal and facial nerves.
The tongue plays a vital role, not only in taste but also in mastication, swallowing (deglutition), and speech production. Movement of the tongue, innervated by the hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), allows for complex speech patterns.
It's also essential to note that the anterior 2/3rd portion of the tongue is sensitive to the four basic taste sensations (salty, sour, bitter, and sweet), while the posterior part is sensitive to the umami taste, contributing to the overall taste experience. The correct option is D) Speech production