The lateral rectus is one of the six extraocular muscles responsible for eye movement. It is located on the outer side of each eye and primarily functions to move the eye outward, away from the nose. This muscle plays a crucial role in coordinating eye movements, allowing for proper vision and depth perception. The lateral rectus is controlled by the abducens nerve, also known as cranial nerve VI. Dysfunction or damage to this nerve can lead to conditions such as strabismus, where the eyes do not align properly, affecting visual clarity and coordination.