Which cranial nerve pair supplies many organs in the ventral body cavity?

• A. Trigeminal nerve (Cranial Nerve V)
• B. Olfactory nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
• C. Optic nerve (Cranial Nerve II)
• D. Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The problem is asking which cranial nerve pair supplies many organs in the ventral body cavity. This involves knowledge of the cranial nerves and their functions.
2. Step 2: Review the cranial nerves. There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves, each with specific functions. For example, the Trigeminal nerve (Cranial Nerve V) is responsible for facial sensation and chewing, while the Olfactory nerve (Cranial Nerve I) is involved in the sense of smell, and the Optic nerve (Cranial Nerve II) is responsible for vision.
3. Step 3: Focus on the Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X). The Vagus nerve is unique because it extends beyond the head and neck region to innervate many organs in the ventral body cavity, including the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.
4. Step 4: Understand the role of the Vagus nerve. It is a mixed nerve, meaning it has both sensory and motor components. It plays a critical role in parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive system.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the Vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X) is the correct answer because it is the only cranial nerve that supplies many organs in the ventral body cavity, unlike the other options provided.