The tongue does all of the following except __________.

• A. taste food
• B. manipulate food within the mouth
• C. shape food into a bolus
• D. push food into the pharynx to begin swallowing
• E. secrete saliva

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the functions of the tongue: The tongue is a muscular organ in the mouth that plays a crucial role in the digestive process. It is responsible for tasting food, manipulating food within the mouth, shaping food into a bolus, and pushing food into the pharynx to begin swallowing.
2. Identify the function that is not performed by the tongue: The tongue does not secrete saliva. Saliva is produced by the salivary glands located in and around the mouth.
3. Differentiate between the functions of the tongue and salivary glands: While the tongue aids in the mechanical aspects of digestion, such as moving and shaping food, the salivary glands are responsible for producing saliva, which helps in chemical digestion and lubrication of food.
4. Clarify the role of saliva: Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that begin the digestion of carbohydrates. It also helps moisten food, making it easier to chew and swallow.
5. Conclude the exception: Based on the functions listed, the tongue does not secrete saliva, which is the correct answer to the problem.