Question

Which of the following is the smallest cranial nerve?

• A. Optic
• B. Facial
• C. Trochlear
• D. Abducens

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Trochlear

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves.
2. Electrical signals are sent between your brain, face, neck, and body by cranial nerves.
3. The trochlear nerve is the smallest cranial nerve.
4. It originates from the floor of the midbrain.
5. It enables the rotation of the eyeball.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A: Optic nerve originates from the optic lobe of the midbrain. It is critical for vision.

Option B: Facial nerve originates from the side and floor of the medulla. The muscles that allow grinning, frowning, wrinkling of the nose, and raising eyebrows and forehead are all controlled by the facial nerve.

Option D: Abducens originates from the lateral side of the medulla. It enables the rotation of the eyeball.

Final answer: Trochlear is the smallest cranial nerve.