Which part of the nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord?

• A. Peripheral nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Central nervous system
• D. Enteric nervous system

Answer: (C)

The central nervous system is what includes the brain and spinal cord. These two structures form the main control center: the brain processes information, makes decisions, and coordinates activities, while the spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body and can handle simple reflexes on its own. The peripheral nervous system, by contrast, consists of all nerves outside the CNS, connecting the brain and spinal cord to limbs and organs. The autonomic nervous system and the enteric nervous system are subdivisions associated with involuntary control and gut function, respectively, and are parts of the peripheral nervous system.