Final answer:
The CN responsible for the Blink (corneal) reflex are the trigeminal and facial nerves. This reflex is a protective response to prevent damage to the eye and can be tested during a physical exam.
Step-by-step explanation:
The CN (cranial nerves) responsible for the Blink (corneal) reflex are the trigeminal nerve and the facial nerve. When the cornea (surface of the eye) is stimulated, either by touch or bright light, a sensory signal is sent through the trigeminal nerve. This nerve carries somatosensory information from the face. The motor response, which causes blinking, travels through the facial nerve and innervates the orbicularis oculi muscle on the same side of the face.
For example, if you touch the cornea of your right eye, the sensory information travels through the right trigeminal nerve and the motor response causes the right orbicularis oculi muscle to contract, resulting in blinking of the right eye.
The corneal reflex is a protective response to prevent damage to the eye. It is commonly tested during a physical exam using an air puff or a gentle touch of a cotton-tipped applicator.