What is the name of the U-shaped bone located at the base of the tongue?

The U-shaped bone located at the base of the tongue is called the hyoid bone. This bone plays a critical role in several functions, including supporting the tongue and serving as an attachment point for muscles associated with swallowing and speech. The hyoid bone is unique because it does not directly connect to any other bone in the body, but is held in place by muscles and ligaments, which allows it to facilitate movement of the tongue and support the floor of the mouth.

The mandible, or jawbone, is the largest bone in the lower face and is involved in chewing and speaking, but it is not situated at the base of the tongue. The palatine bones are part of the oral cavity and contribute to the formation of the hard palate, but they do not support the tongue itself. The vomer is a bone that forms part of the nasal septum and also does not connect with the tongue or play a role in its movement or function. Thus, the hyoid bone is distinctly important as it specifically supports the functions associated with the tongue.