Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following cranial nerves is associated with the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?
A
Hypoglossal nerve (Cranial Nerve XII)
B
Optic nerve (Cranial Nerve II)
C
Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X)
D
Trochlear nerve (Cranial Nerve IV)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is responsible for involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. It is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
Step 2: Review the functions of the cranial nerves listed in the problem. The Hypoglossal nerve (Cranial Nerve XII) controls tongue movements, the Optic nerve (Cranial Nerve II) is responsible for vision, and the Trochlear nerve (Cranial Nerve IV) controls eye movement.
Step 3: Identify the cranial nerve associated with the ANS. The Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X) is involved in parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract, making it the cranial nerve most closely associated with the ANS.
Step 4: Recognize that the Vagus nerve has extensive connections to various organs and plays a critical role in regulating autonomic functions such as slowing the heart rate and promoting digestion.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X) based on its parasympathetic functions within the autonomic nervous system.