The trigeminal nerve (CN V) divides into which branches?

The trigeminal nerve, also known as cranial nerve V, is the largest cranial nerve and is primarily responsible for sensation in the face and certain motor functions such as biting and chewing. It divides into three major branches:

1. Ophthalmic branch (V1) - This branch is responsible for sensory innervation to the upper part of the face, including the forehead, upper eyelid, and parts of the nose.

2. Maxillary branch (V2) - This branch supplies the middle part of the face, providing sensory innervation to the cheeks, upper lip, and upper teeth.

3. Mandibular branch (V3) - This branch has both sensory and motor functions. It provides sensory innervation to the lower lip, lower jaw, and some parts of the ear, and it also innervates the muscles involved in mastication.

This division is essential for understanding the functions of the trigeminal nerve in clinical practice and potential pathologies associated with its branches. The identification and understanding of each branch allow healthcare providers to assess sensory and motor deficits in patients effectively. Other options do not relate to the divisions of the trigeminal nerve and instead list unrelated cranial nerves.