In a human being, the number of cranial nerves is

Options

A. 12 pairs
B. 6 pairs
C. 20 pairs
D. 10 pairs

Explanation

To determine the number of cranial nerves in a human being, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Cranial Nerves**: Cranial nerves are nerves that emerge directly from the brain, primarily the brainstem, and they are responsible for various functions including sensory and motor functions of the head and neck.

2. **Counting the Pairs**: In humans, there are a total of 12 pairs of cranial nerves. Each pair consists of one nerve on the left side and one on the right side.

3. **Listing the Cranial Nerves**: The 12 pairs of cranial nerves are as follows:
- Olfactory Nerve (I)
- Optic Nerve (II)
- Oculomotor Nerve (III)
- Trochlear Nerve (IV)
- Trigeminal Nerve (V)
- Abducens Nerve (VI)
- Facial Nerve (VII)
- Vestibulocochlear Nerve (VIII)
- Glossopharyngeal Nerve (IX)
- Vagus Nerve (X)
- Accessory Nerve (XI)
- Hypoglossal Nerve (XII)

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the total number of cranial nerves in a human being is 12 pairs.

### Final Answer:
The number of cranial nerves in a human being is **12 pairs**.

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