Which cranial nerve is responsible for motor control of the temporal and masseter muscles?

The cranial nerve responsible for motor control of the temporal and masseter muscles is the Trigeminal nerve, specifically its mandibular branch (V3). This nerve plays a critical role in the masticatory process, as it innervates the muscles that are essential for chewing.

The temporal muscle, which is located on the side of the head, is responsible for elevating the mandible and closing the jaw. Similarly, the masseter muscle, located at the angle of the jaw, is a key muscle involved in the process of biting and grinding food. Both muscles work together to facilitate effective mastication, making the Trigeminal nerve crucial for these motor functions.

Other cranial nerves, such as the Abducens, Oculomotor, and Trochlear, serve different roles primarily associated with the movement of the eyes and do not contribute to the motor control of the chewing muscles. This distinctly positions the Trigeminal nerve as the answer focused on motor control of the temporal and masseter muscles.