What action does the inferior rectus muscle perform?

The inferior rectus muscle is one of the six extraocular muscles that control eye movement. Its primary function is to facilitate the downward movement of the eye, which is why the correct answer is that it turns the eye downward. This action is essential for various visual tasks, such as looking at objects that are lower in the visual field.

The inferior rectus muscle works in conjunction with other extraocular muscles to allow for a wide range of eye movements, enabling the eyes to track and focus on different targets. Understanding the role of the inferior rectus is crucial in the context of ocular anatomy and physiology, as well as in diagnosing and treating ocular motility disorders.