**Core Concept**
The deep petrosal nerve is a small nerve that plays a crucial role in the autonomic innervation of the eye. It is formed from the sympathetic fibers that arise from the superior cervical ganglion and travel through the pterygopalatine ganglion.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The deep petrosal nerve is formed from the sympathetic fibers that arise from the superior cervical ganglion, which is part of the sympathetic trunk. These fibers then travel through the pterygopalatine ganglion, where they synapse with the parasympathetic fibers from the greater petrosal nerve. The resulting nerve, the nerve of the pterygoid canal, carries both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers to the eye. The deep petrosal nerve specifically carries the sympathetic fibers that are destined for the eye.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The greater petrosal nerve is formed from the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and carries parasympathetic fibers to the eye, not sympathetic fibers.
**Option B:** The lesser petrosal nerve carries preganglionic parasympathetic fibers from the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX) to the otic ganglion, and is not related to the formation of the deep petrosal nerve.
**Option D:** The auriculotemporal nerve is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) and carries sensory fibers from the ear and temple region, not sympathetic fibers to the eye.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The deep petrosal nerve is an important structure in the autonomic innervation of the eye, and is involved in the regulation of pupil size and tear production. It is also an important landmark in ophthalmic surgery, particularly in procedures involving the orbit and the pterygopalatine fossa.

**Correct Answer:** C. The deep petrosal nerve is formed from the sympathetic fibers that arise from the superior cervical ganglion and travel through the pterygopalatine ganglion.