Which extraocular muscle moves the eye laterally?

The lateral rectus muscle is responsible for moving the eye laterally, which is also known as abduction. This muscle is situated on the outer side of the eye and contracts to pull the eye away from the midline of the face, allowing for side-to-side movement. It's controlled by the abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI).

Understanding the functions of the other extraocular muscles provides additional context: the medial rectus, which is located on the inner side of the eye, moves the eye medially (toward the nose); the superior rectus elevates the eye, allowing for upward gaze; and the inferior rectus depresses the eye, enabling downward gaze. Each muscle has a specific role, but the lateral rectus is unique in its lateral movement function.