Question

which muscle elevates and retracts the mandible during mastication?
the lateral pterygoid muscle
the masseter muscle
the buccinator muscle
the temporalis muscle

Explanation:

The temporalis muscle is responsible for elevating and retracting the mandible during mastication. The lateral pterygoid muscle protracts and depresses the mandible. The masseter muscle primarily elevates the mandible. The buccinator muscle is involved in actions like blowing and keeping food between the teeth during chewing, not mandible elevation - retraction.

Answer:

The temporalis muscle