101 ex 10 head and face muscles crossword EclipseCrossword.com Across 3. often responsible for dimples 5. lifts the upper lip (do not use spaces) 6. both the occipitalis and frontalis muscles 9. crosses the bridge of the nose 10. makes you pout (do not use spaces) Down 1. often tight with tension headaches 2. The larger muscle which attaches to the zygomatic bone (do not use spaces) 4. extends the head by attaching to the inferior portion of the posterior skull (do not use spaces) 7. attaches to the sternum and the hyoid bones 8. forms the cheeks
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Across
3. Zygomaticusminor
5. Levatorlabii
6. Epicranius
9. Procerus
10. Mentalis
Down
- Frontalis
- Zygomaticusmajor
- Semispinaliscapitis
- Sternohyoid
- Buccinator
Explanation
The human face is capable of expressing a wide range of emotions and performing essential functions like chewing, speaking, and breathing due to a complex group of muscles. These muscles are generally thin, flat, and intricately layered, often inserting directly into the skin to create facial expressions.
One key group is the zygomaticus major and minor, which attach to the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) and are involved in smiling and forming dimples. The zygomaticus minor specifically helps elevate the upper lip, contributing to expressions of disdain or sadness.
The levator labii superioris (written as levatorlabii in the crossword) also elevates the upper lip, aiding in facial expressions like showing contempt or surprise. The mentalis muscle, found at the tip of the chin, is responsible for elevating and protruding the lower lip, producing a pout.
The epicranius, formed by both the frontalis and occipitalis, covers the top of the skull and enables raising of the eyebrows and wrinkling of the forehead. The procerus crosses the bridge of the nose and helps in frowning by pulling the skin between the eyebrows downward.
The frontalis, located on the forehead, is often associated with tension headaches due to its frequent contraction under stress. The semispinalis capitis, attaching to the lower part of the posterior skull, helps in extending and rotating the head.
The sternohyoid runs from the sternum to the hyoid bone and is involved in swallowing by depressing the hyoid. Finally, the buccinator, forming the wall of the cheek, is essential in chewing by keeping food between the teeth and also helps in blowing or sucking actions.
Understanding these muscles provides a foundation for studying both facial anatomy and clinical applications like neurology, dentistry, and physical therapy.
