**Question:** General sensation to the posterior one-third of the tongue is mediated by the -

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**Core Concept**

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the central nervous system (CNS), such as the brain and spinal cord. In humans, sensory neurons responsible for transmitting information from the tongue are part of the primary sensory neurons, which are located within the cranial nerves. The posterior one-third of the tongue is particularly important for taste perception, as it contains taste buds responsible for recognizing different tastes.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**

The correct answer, option D (Cranial Nerve V, also known as the Glossopharyngeal Nerve), is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the posterior one-third of the tongue. This area is rich in taste buds, which are responsible for detecting different tastes and transmitting this information to the CNS.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**

Option A (Cranial Nerve VII, also known as the Facial Nerve) is incorrect because it is responsible for motor function in the face, rather than sensory function in the tongue.

Option B (Cranial Nerve IX, also known as the Vagus Nerve) is incorrect as it is primarily responsible for parasympathetic autonomic functions, such as swallowing and heart rate regulation, and does not specifically transmit sensory information from the tongue.

Option C (Cranial Nerve X, also known as the Glossopharyngeal Nerve) is incorrect as it is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the posterior one-third of the tongue, making option D the correct answer.

**Clinical Pearl**

Understanding the sensory innervation of the tongue is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of tongue-related disorders. Misdiagnosis could lead to incorrect treatment plans and potentially compromise patient care.

**Correct Answer:** Cranial Nerve V (Vagus Nerve)

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