Final answer:
The vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the acoustic nerve (VIII), is responsible for carrying auditory information from the ear to the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cranial nerve that carries impulses from the ear to the brain is the vestibulocochlear nerve or auditory nerve, which is also known as the acoustic nerve (VIII). This nerve is dedicated to two of the special senses: equilibrium and hearing. It transmits auditory information and balance sensation from the inner ear to the brain, allowing us to hear and maintain our balance. On the contrary, the optic nerve (II) relays visual information, the olfactory nerve (I) is for smell, and the vagus nerve (X) carries out autonomic functions in the thoracic and superior abdominal cavities, among other responsibilities. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is d) Acoustic (VIII).