Which of the following nerve helps in maintaining the equilibrium of body :

Options

A. Trochlear
B. Abducens
C. Auditory
D. Facial

Answer

To determine which nerve helps in maintaining the equilibrium of the body, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Nerves**: The question provides four options: trochlear nerve, abducens nerve, auditory nerve, and facial nerve. We will evaluate each one to see if it relates to maintaining body equilibrium.

2. **Trochlear Nerve**:
- The trochlear nerve is the 4th cranial nerve.
- It is primarily a motor nerve that innervates the superior oblique muscle of the eye.
- **Conclusion**: It does not play a role in maintaining body equilibrium.

3. **Abducens Nerve**:
- The abducens nerve is the 6th cranial nerve.
- Its function is to control the movement of the lateral rectus muscle, which is also involved in eye movement.
- **Conclusion**: This nerve does not contribute to body equilibrium.

4. **Auditory Nerve**:
- The auditory nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, is responsible for hearing and balance.
- It carries auditory information from the cochlea to the brain and includes components that help maintain equilibrium through the vestibular system located in the inner ear.
- **Conclusion**: This nerve is crucial for maintaining body equilibrium.

5. **Facial Nerve**:
- The facial nerve is the 7th cranial nerve.
- It controls facial expressions and provides taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue.
- **Conclusion**: It does not have a role in maintaining body equilibrium.

6. **Final Answer**: Based on the analysis, the auditory nerve is the correct answer as it plays a significant role in maintaining the equilibrium of the body through its vestibular functions.