Question

Bitter taste perception can be at:

• A. Tip of the tongue
• B. Edges of the tongue
• C. Back of the tongue
• D. Anterior of the tongue

Hint:

Remember the order from front to back: Sweet (Tip), Salty/Sour (Sides), and Bitter (Back). This "Tongue Map" is a useful tool for sensory evaluation training.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The human tongue has taste buds that contain receptors for different primary tastes.

• Primary Tastes: Sweet, Salty, Sour, Bitter, and Umami.

• Tongue Map: While all areas can detect all tastes, certain areas have higher sensitivities.

Step 1: Analyzing the distribution of taste receptors.
The tip of the tongue is most sensitive to sweet tastes. The sides or edges are most sensitive to salty and sour tastes.

Step 2: Locating bitter receptors.
Receptors for bitter compounds are concentrated at the posterior part of the tongue. This is commonly referred to as the "back of the tongue."

Step 3: Biological significance.
Locating bitter receptors at the back serves as a safety mechanism. It triggers the gag reflex to prevent the ingestion of potentially toxic substances. Final Answer: (C)