Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What is the name of cranial nerve XI, which is responsible for motor function to shoulder muscles?

1. Hypoglossal

2. Accessory

3. Facial

4. Vagus

The correct answer is: Accessory

Cranial nerve XI is known as the Accessory nerve. It primarily provides motor function to certain neck and shoulder muscles, specifically the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, which are essential for movements such as shrugging the shoulders and rotating the head. This nerve plays a vital role in the control of these muscle groups, allowing for the coordination of head and shoulder movements. The other options refer to different cranial nerves. The Hypoglossal nerve is responsible for tongue movement, the Facial nerve controls muscles involved in facial expression and taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, and the Vagus nerve has a broad range of functions, including heart rate regulation and digestive tract control. Understanding the unique roles of each cranial nerve helps to clarify the function and significance of the Accessory nerve in shoulder muscle movement.