Final answer:
The olivary nuclei in the medulla separate the Glossopharyngeal (CN IX) and Vagus (CN X) nerves from the Hypoglossal (CN XII) nerve. These nuclei are responsible for processing sensory information and coordinating motor functions relevant to these cranial nerves.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the medulla, the olivary nuclei separate the Cranial Nerve IX (Glossopharyngeal) and Cranial Nerve X (Vagus) from the Cranial Nerve XII (Hypoglossal). These cranial nerves emerge from the medulla oblongata, which is part of the brainstem. The Glossopharyngeal and Vagus nerves exit the medulla just anterior to the olivary nuclei, while the Hypoglossal nerve exits more medially and forward towards the tongue. The olivary nuclei play a role in processing sensory information and in coordinating motor functions. Cranial nerves IX and X are involved in sensory and motor functions including taste, swallowing, and visceral motor functions, whereas Cranial Nerve XII is primarily involved in motor control over the tongue.