Sensory supply of middle ear cavity is by
**Core Concept**
The middle ear cavity, also known as the tympanic cavity, receives its sensory supply from specific branches of the cranial nerves. This supply is crucial for the transmission of pain and other sensations from the middle ear. The **tympanic plexus** plays a significant role in this sensory innervation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the **tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve (Jacobson's nerve)**, which forms the **tympanic plexus**. This plexus is responsible for the sensory innervation of the middle ear cavity, including the mucous membrane lining the cavity. The **glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)** is involved in various functions, including swallowing, salivation, and sensory supply to parts of the ear.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because it does not specifically relate to the sensory supply of the middle ear cavity.
**Option B:** Incorrect as it is not directly associated with the sensory innervation of the middle ear.
**Option D:** Incorrect because, although related to the ear, it is not responsible for the sensory supply of the middle ear cavity.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the **glossopharyngeal nerve** has a broad range of functions, including the sensory supply to the middle ear, which can be relevant in clinical scenarios involving ear pain or pathology.
**Correct Answer:** D. Tympanic branch of glossopharyngeal nerve.