This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Anatomy
Impulses generated in the taste buds of the tongue reach the cerebral cortex via the: 
Select and explain. 
A. Thalamus, B. Internal capsule, C. Cervical spinal nerve, D. Trigeminal nerve
A: Thalamus
Answer: A: Thalamus 
Explanation: Functions of the Thalamus:
The main functions of the thalamus are as follows:

It is a sensory integration and relay station of all the sensory pathways except for the olfactory pathway which is projected directly to the cerebral cortex without being relayed in the thalamus.
The impulses from taste buds of tongue reach the cerebral cortex via this relay station.
It is capable of recognition, though poorly, of pain, thermal and some tactile sensations at its own level