Which nerve is responsible for turning the eye inferolaterally?

The correct choice for the nerve responsible for turning the eye inferolaterally is the oculomotor nerve (CN III). This cranial nerve innervates most of the extraocular muscles, allowing for a wide range of eye movements. Specifically, it controls the movement of the inferior rectus, inferior oblique, and medial rectus muscles.

The movement inferolateral to the position of the eye involves both downward and lateral actions, which are primarily facilitated through the activation of the inferior rectus and inferior oblique muscles. This combination allows the eye to move effectively into the inferolateral position.

While the trochlear nerve (CN IV) innervates the superior oblique muscle (which helps turn the eye downward and inward), it is not primarily responsible for the specific movement of inferolateral. The abducent nerve (CN VI), which innervates the lateral rectus muscle, helps in abducting the eye but does not contribute to the inferolateral movement itself. The vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) does not innervate any extraocular muscles; it is primarily involved in hearing and balance.

Therefore, the oculomotor nerve plays a vital role in controlling the movements necessary for the