What function does the abducens nerve control?

• A. Eye movement (inferior, lateral)
• B. Eye movement (lateral)
• C. Facial expressions
• D. Hearing and balance

Answer: (B)

The abducens nerve, also known as cranial nerve VI, is primarily responsible for controlling the lateral movement of the eye. Its main function is to innervate the lateral rectus muscle, which allows for eye abduction, meaning the eye can move away from the midline of the body, towards the side. This specific action is crucial for coordinating eye movements, particularly in maintaining visual focus when the head is turned.

In this context, the choice that indicates "eye movement (lateral)" accurately reflects the primary function of the abducens nerve, as it specifically facilitates lateral eye movement without involvement in the other indicated functions, such as those associated with the facial nerve or auditory functions relying on the vestibulocochlear nerve.