Which cranial nerve provides sensory information from the outer ear?

The correct answer is the facial nerve, as it plays a vital role in providing sensory information from the outer ear. Specifically, the facial nerve is responsible for carrying sensory innervation that includes sensations from the skin around the ear and the external auditory canal.

The sensory fibers of the facial nerve originate from the geniculate ganglion and supply the area around the ear, allowing it to process sensations such as touch and temperature. This is why individuals can perceive sensations in the outer ear, ultimately linking the facial nerve to sensory functions in that region.

Understanding the specific roles of cranial nerves is crucial for accurately associating them with their functions, especially in clinical scenarios involving sensory or motor deficits.