Final answer:
The 8th cranial nerve is the vestibulocochlear nerve, which handles the senses of equilibrium and hearing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 8th cranial nerve is known as the vestibulocochlear nerve. It is dedicated to the special senses of equilibrium and hearing, transmitting sensory information from the inner ear to the brain. The vestibulocochlear nerve is purely sensory, unlike some other cranial nerves that may contain a mix of sensory and motor fibers.