Which cranial nerve is responsible for motor control of the tongue?

The cranial nerve that is responsible for motor control of the tongue is the Hypoglossal Nerve. This nerve is specifically designated as cranial nerve XII and plays a crucial role in the movement of the tongue muscles, which are essential for activities such as swallowing and speaking. The Hypoglossal Nerve innervates all intrinsic and most extrinsic muscles of the tongue, allowing for precise and coordinated tongue movements.

Understanding the functions of other cranial nerves clarifies why they are not responsible for tongue movement. The Facial Nerve (cranial nerve VII) primarily handles facial expressions and taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue but does not control motor functions of the tongue itself. The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (cranial nerve IX) is involved in taste from the posterior one-third of the tongue and contributes to swallowing but does not facilitate motor control. The Optic Nerve (cranial nerve II) is solely responsible for vision and has no involvement in tongue movements. Thus, the Hypoglossal Nerve stands out as the correct choice for controlling the motor function of the tongue.