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Multiple Choice
Which facial muscle is primarily used to whistle by compressing the cheeks against the teeth and aiding in blowing?
A
Zygomaticus major
B
Frontalis (frontal belly of occipitofrontalis)
C
Buccinator
D
Orbicularis oculi
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the function described in the question — whistling involves compressing the cheeks against the teeth and controlling airflow for blowing.
Step 2: Recall the primary muscles involved in facial expressions and movements related to the cheeks and mouth.
Step 3: Identify that the Buccinator muscle is located in the cheek area and functions to compress the cheeks against the teeth, which helps in actions like whistling, blowing, and chewing.
Step 4: Compare the other options: Zygomaticus major elevates the corners of the mouth (smiling), Frontalis raises the eyebrows and wrinkles the forehead, and Orbicularis oculi controls eyelid movement, none of which are primarily involved in cheek compression for whistling.
Step 5: Conclude that the Buccinator is the correct muscle responsible for compressing the cheeks against the teeth and aiding in blowing, which is essential for whistling.