Problem 63 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

The gland which is situated below the tongue is (a) Parotid (b) Sub-maxillary (c) Sub-lingual (d) Sub-mandibular

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(c) Sub-lingual

Step 1: Understand the terminology

The prefixes 'Sub-' in the given choices mean 'under' or 'below'. So looking at the options, some choices already indicate a position below something. 'Maxillary' refers to the jaw or cheek area, 'lingual' refers to the tongue, and 'mandibular' refers to the lower jaw.

Step 2: Analyse the options

(a) Parotid: This gland is located in front of the ear and is not situated below the tongue. \n(b) Sub-maxillary: This gland is located at the back of the mouth and is also known as the submandibular gland, so it's not right below the tongue. \n(c) Sub-lingual: As the name suggests, 'Sub-lingual' refers to 'under the tongue'. \n(d) Sub-mandibular: This lies closer to the lower jaw, and it's not directly under the tongue.

Step 3: Choose the correct answer

Among all the choices, the Sub-lingual gland appears to be the one fitting the description of being situated below the tongue. Hence, the correct answer is (c) Sub-lingual.

Key Concepts

Salivary Glands

Salivary glands play a key role in the digestive system, primarily by producing saliva which helps break down food particles. These glands, based on their positioning, are broadly categorized as parotid, submandibular, and sublingual.

• Parotid glands are the largest salivary glands located near the ear and are responsible for producing a watery type of saliva rich in enzymes like amylase.
• Submandibular glands, also known as sub-maxillary, are found beneath the floor of the mouth and produce both mucus and serous components of saliva.
• Sublingual glands are the smallest, located under the tongue, producing saliva that aids in lubricating and digesting food.

The unique functions and secretions of these glands are vital for proper digestion and oral health.

Lingual Anatomy

Lingual anatomy refers to the structures and features of the tongue and its surrounding areas. The tongue is a muscular organ covered with lingual papillae, which contain taste buds responsible for the sensation of taste.
The underside of the tongue has several small structures called the sublingual folds and frenulum, which connect it to the floor of the mouth.

• The dorsal surface of the tongue is rough due to the presence of various papillae types, aiding in gripping food.
• The ventral surface is smoother and allows for certain medications to be absorbed quickly when placed under the tongue, known as sublingual administration.

These features make the tongue both highly versatile and essential for speech, taste, and manipulating food during chewing.

Glandular Positioning

Glandular positioning refers to the anatomical locations of glands relative to other parts of the body. Understanding this positioning helps in comprehending their function and relevance. In the case of the salivary glands:

• The parotid glands are positioned near the upper jaw, focused around the ear region.
• The submandibular glands are nearer to the lower jaw, functioning to drain saliva into the mouth beneath the tongue.
• The sublingual glands are located directly under the tongue, providing immediate lubrication for the mouth and initiating the digestion of starches.

This positioning not only affects the flow of saliva but also its composition and function, which are essential for both oral hygiene and initial digestion processes.