As a cook chops red onions he begins to tear up due to activation of the lacrimal gland. Which of the following nerves provided the stimulus?

A) the vagus nerve (X)

B) the optic nerve (II)

C) the facial nerve (VII)

D) the olfactory nerve (I)

C) the facial nerve (VII)

Explanation:

The facial nerve (VII) is a cranial nerve. The cranial nerves are those nerves which arise from the brain. Most of the cranial nerves contain both motor and sensory neurons. Cranial nerves are connect to the various organs. Cranial nerves are associated with parasympathetic nervous system.

The facial nerve supplies nerve to many glands of the head and neck including lacrimal glands.

Thus, the facial nerve (VII) provided the stimulus to the lacrimal gland that cause tear while chopping oninons.