Name the four fundamental tastes and the areas of the tongue which perceive them. …………………………………….

The four fundamental tastes and the areas of the tongue which perceive them are:

1. Sweet: sweetness is tasted at the tip of the tongue.

2. Salty: saltiness is tasted at the lateral sides of the tongue.

3. Sour: sour is tasted at the lateral sides of the tongue.

4. Bitter: bitterness is tasted at the far end of the tongue.

Explanation: Sweet, sour, salty and bitter tastes can actually be sensed by all parts of the tongue. Thus, these are known as the four fundamental tastes. Only the sides of the tongue are more sensitive than the middle overall. This is true of all tastes – with one exception: the back of our tongue is very sensitive to bitter tastes. This is apparently to protect us so that we can spit out poisonous or spoiled foods or substances before they enter the throat and are swallowed.

Note: The sense of taste is located in the taste buds and is located on the upper surface of the tongue only.