Final answer:
The vagus nerve, or cranial nerve X, provides parasympathetic innervation to thoracic and abdominal organs. It controls heart rate, digestion, and other physiological functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vagus nerve, also known as cranial nerve X, is responsible for the autonomic control of organs in the thoracic and upper abdominal cavities. It is the tenth cranial nerve and provides parasympathetic innervation to most thoracic and abdominal viscera. The vagus nerve originates from the brain stem and has functions in the control of heart rate, digestion, and other important physiological processes.