Which cranial nerve is primarily involved in controlling tongue movements?

Cranial Nerve XII, also known as the hypoglossal nerve, is primarily responsible for controlling the movements of the tongue. This nerve innervates the muscles of the tongue, allowing for actions such as chewing, swallowing, and speech articulation. Dysfunction in this nerve can lead to difficulties in these vital functions, highlighting its importance in motor control.

The other cranial nerves listed have different primary functions. Cranial Nerve VIII, or the vestibulocochlear nerve, is involved in hearing and balance rather than movement control. Cranial Nerve VI, known as the abducens nerve, is mainly responsible for the lateral movement of the eye. Cranial Nerve IV, or the trochlear nerve, controls the superior oblique muscle of the eye, affecting eye movement rather than tongue control. Therefore, the role of the hypoglossal nerve in tongue movement is critical and distinguishing amongst cranial nerves.