The large muscular organ that occupies most of the oral cavity proper is called the:

• A. epiglottis
• B. tongue
• C. uvula
• D. palate

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the anatomical location described in the problem, which is the 'oral cavity proper.' This refers to the space within the mouth that is enclosed by the teeth and gums.
2. Step 2: Consider the function and structure of each option provided: the epiglottis, tongue, uvula, and palate. The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located in the throat, not the oral cavity. The uvula is a small, fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate. The palate forms the roof of the mouth. The tongue is a large muscular organ within the oral cavity.
3. Step 3: Recall the primary characteristics of the tongue. It is a muscular organ that occupies most of the oral cavity proper, is involved in speech, taste, and manipulation of food, and is highly mobile.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on their anatomical location and function. The epiglottis and uvula are not large muscular organs, and the palate is not primarily muscular.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the tongue, as it matches the description of a large muscular organ occupying most of the oral cavity proper.