Final answer:
The vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) carries both equilibrium and auditory sensations from the inner ear to the medulla. It consists of two divisions: the vestibular nerve and the cochlear nerve. The vestibular nerve is responsible for transmitting information about balance and orientation, while the cochlear nerve transmits information about sound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) carries both equilibrium and auditory sensations from the inner ear to the medulla. It consists of two divisions: the vestibular nerve and the cochlear nerve. The vestibular nerve is responsible for transmitting information about balance and orientation, while the cochlear nerve transmits information about sound.
The vestibular nerve carries signals from the utricle, saccule, and semicircular canals, which are structures in the inner ear that sense changes in the position and movement of the head. This information helps the brain maintain balance and coordinate movements.
The cochlear nerve carries signals from the cochlea, which is the structure in the inner ear responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. This allows us to perceive and understand sounds.