What happens to the eye in response to cranial nerve VII damage?

The answer is A, as cranial nerve VII, also known as the facial nerve, is primarily responsible for the motor control of the muscles of facial expression, including those around the eye. When this nerve is damaged, it can lead to conditions such as facial paralysis or weakness, resulting in the inability to close the eye on the affected side. This inability can make the eye appear to roll upward, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as "bell's phenomenon," where the eyes move upward and inward when one attempts to close them.

In the context of this question, the inability to close the eye properly can expose the cornea, potentially leading to dryness, irritation, and other complications. Thus, the specific response is a classic sign of cranial nerve VII damage: the eye may roll up and cannot close effectively due to weakened or paralyzed facial muscles.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of cranial nerve VII damage. Furthermore, the functionality of the eye (such as light reaction) and the retraction of the eye would not be directly impacted by damage to this nerve, as they primarily involve different cranial nerves and eye muscle function.