Final answer:
The facial nerve exits the brain stem laterally, passing through the internal acoustic meatus and exiting the skull through the stylomastoid foramen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The facial nerve leaves the brain stem laterally. Specifically, it exits the brain stem at the pontomedullary junction, then passes through the internal acoustic meatus along with the vestibulocochlear nerve. After that, it proceeds to exit the skull via the stylomastoid foramen to innervate the muscles of facial expression. This nerve is also responsible for carrying taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and for stimulating salivation, making it crucial for normal facial function and sensation.It exits the brain stem through a small opening called the stylomastoid foramen, which is located between the styloid process and mastoid process. The facial nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles of the face, including those involved in facial expressions and movements.