Final answer:
The function of the oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerves is to control eye movements, including coordination of gaze, convergence, accommodation, and gaze stabilization during head movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of the oculomotor (CN III), trochlear (CN IV), and abducens (CN VI) nerves is to control eye movements. The oculomotor nerve is involved in the movement of four of the extraocular muscles, lifting the upper eyelid, and in pupillary constriction. The trochlear nerve innervates the superior oblique muscle, allowing the eye to rotate along its axis. The abducens nerve controls the lateral rectus muscle, which abducts the eye. These nerves are vital for coordinated eye movement, gaze stabilization, and tracking of visual stimuli. Together, they are connected by the medial longitudinal fasciculus to coordinate gaze, assist in convergence and accommodation, and facilitate the vestibulo-ocular reflex that stabilizes gaze during head movements.