Final answer:
The hypoglossal nucleus is located near the midline just beneath the fourth ventricle in the medulla oblongata. It is responsible for controlling the muscles of the tongue, except for the palatoglossus muscle. Damage to the hypoglossal nucleus or nerve can impair tongue movement, affecting speech and swallowing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hypoglossal nucleus is located in the medulla oblongata, which is part of the brainstem and is located near the midline just beneath the fourth ventricle.
The hypoglossal nucleus is responsible for controlling the muscles of the tongue, except for the palatoglossus muscle which is controlled by the vagus nerve.
If there is damage to the hypoglossal nucleus or nerve, it can result in impairment of tongue movement, affecting speech and swallowing.