**Core Concept**
A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus behind the tonsils, typically caused by a bacterial infection. It is a complication of tonsillitis and can involve the soft tissues of the throat. The abscess is usually located between the tonsillar capsule and the superior constrictor muscle of the pharynx.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is incorrect because a peritonsillar abscess typically collects anterior (in front of) or posterior (behind) to the superior constrictor muscle, not lateral (to the side). This is due to the anatomical location of the tonsils and the surrounding muscles. The superior constrictor muscle is one of the three constrictor muscles of the pharynx, which play a crucial role in swallowing. The abscess formation is often related to the spread of infection from the tonsillar crypts.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** A bulge in the soft palate is not a characteristic feature of a peritonsillar abscess, which is more likely to cause a bulge in the tonsillar region or the uvula.

**Option B:** A peritonsillar abscess does indeed involve the floor of the mouth, as it affects the soft tissues of the throat, including the area near the tongue and the floor of the mouth.

**Option D:** Trismus (lockjaw) is a common symptom of a peritonsillar abscess due to the pain and swelling in the pharyngeal muscles, which can cause difficulty in opening the mouth.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A peritonsillar abscess is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment, usually involving antibiotics and drainage of the abscess. A high index of suspicion is necessary for early diagnosis, as delayed treatment can lead to complications such as airway obstruction or abscess rupture into the airway.

✓ Correct Answer: C. Abscess is collected lateral to the superior constrictor