Final answer:
The femoral nerve originates from the L2-L4 nerve roots and supplies motor and sensory innervation to various muscles in the thigh, such as the quadriceps femoris, sartorius, and pectineus, as well as providing sensation to parts of the thigh and leg.
Step-by-step explanation:
The femoral nerve originates from the nerve roots of L2 to L4, which are part of the lumbar plexus. This nerve is a critical component of the neurological system in the human body. It supplies motor and sensory innervation to parts of the thigh and lower leg, particularly the anterior thigh muscles.
The muscles that are primarily supplied by the femoral nerve include the quadriceps femoris, which is critical for knee extension; the sartorius, which aids in flexing, abducting, and laterally rotating the thigh; and the pectineus, which is involved in hip flexion and adduction. Through its sensory branches, the femoral nerve also provides sensation to the anteromedial aspect of the thigh and medial side of the leg and foot.