PSI Barbering Practice Exam

What muscle is known as the ring muscle of the eye socket that enables you to close your eyes?

1. Orbicularis oris

2. Orbicularis oculi

3. Risorius

4. Buccinator

The correct answer is: Orbicularis oculi

The muscle known as the ring muscle of the eye socket that enables you to close your eyes is the orbicularis oculi. This muscle surrounds the eye and plays a crucial role in the closing of the eyelids, which is essential for protecting the eyes from irritants and for moisture retention. The orbicularis oculi works not only in blinking but also during actions such as squinting, which helps reduce glare from bright light. The other muscles listed serve different purposes: the orbicularis oris encircles the mouth and is involved in actions such as kissing or puckering the lips; the risorius is responsible for pulling the corners of the mouth laterally, facilitating expressions such as smiling; and the buccinator helps in holding food between the teeth during chewing and plays a role in making facial expressions as well but is not involved in closing the eyes. Thus, the orbicularis oculi is specifically designated for the function of closing the eyelids, making it the correct choice for this question.