Which nerve has both motor and sensory functions and is involved in swallowing?

The vagus nerve (CN X) is indeed the correct answer as it plays a crucial role in both motor and sensory functions, particularly in the process of swallowing. As one of the cranial nerves, the vagus nerve has a diverse range of responsibilities that extend beyond the head and neck to include visceral functions in the thorax and abdomen.

Motor functions provided by the vagus nerve include innervating muscles involved in swallowing, such as those in the pharynx and larynx. This enables coordinated movement during swallowing, allowing for the safe passage of food and liquids into the esophagus while preventing aspiration.

Sensory functions of the vagus nerve include conveying sensations from the throat and larynx back to the brain, which is essential for monitoring the swallowing process and triggering protective reflexes if needed.

Additionally, this nerve has autonomic fibers that are involved in regulating heart rate, gastrointestinal motility, and other involuntary functions, showcasing its importance in maintaining homeostasis.

In contrast, the optic nerve primarily manages visual information, the facial nerve mainly controls muscles of facial expression and provides taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, while the hypoglossal nerve is concerned solely with motor control of the tongue muscles, thus lacking